There are a number of products on the market that suggest they can aid in your pets dental hygiene. These range from products that help freshen breath to specially shaped ‘dental’ biscuits. I can't remember the last time I cleaned my teeth by eating a cracker! The theory is that crunching commercial dry food and the friction created on the teeth when biting will reduce plaque and the build up of tartar. In reality, a dry food has been proven to have only marginal tartar fighting properties. The hard baked biscuits when crunched and moistened with saliva, are more inclined to leave a starchy build up around teeth and actually promote plaque growth.

The grains and cereals in many commercial dry cat and dog biscuits contain starches (a carbohydrate), which when broken down form sugars. These in turn cause the build up of plaque and tartar, just as sugar laden sweets and fizzy drink cause that furry feeling to build up on our teeth. The bacteria in plaque is the cause of the all too common 'dog breath'. If left untreated further problems of diseased teeth and gums and periodontal disease can arise.

Nature combats dental disease with a proper diet. An all prey based diet, that is high in natural protein will keep reduce the level of plaque and tartar that forms on your pet's teeth. The absence of carbohydrates, which are broken down by enzymes in the saliva, inhibit plaque causing bacteria growth. Any plaque that does accumulate will be wiped away by the biting and shearing motion as the teeth tear through flesh and fur.