Are Oral Health Rinses Healthy?

If you are looking for ways to improve your pet's dental health, you may have come across pet oral rinses or water additives. These are products that claim to reduce plaque, tartar, and bad breath in dogs and cats by adding them to their drinking water. But are they really effective and safe for your furry friends?

According to some sources, pet oral rinses can help support healthy teeth and gums by controlling plaque and tartar in dogs. These water additives should be added daily to your pet's water bowl. These products are not a replacement for weekly brushing or routine non-anesthetic dental cleanings, but a complement to a pet's overall dental care plan.

However, not all pet oral rinses are created equal. Some may contain ingredients that are harmful or toxic to pets, such as fluoride, xylitol, alcohol, or artificial sweeteners. These ingredients can cause vomiting, diarrhea, liver damage, or even death in pets if ingested in large amounts. Therefore, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a product that is specifically made for pets and approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). The VOHC is an organization that evaluates and recognizes dental products for dogs and cats that meet or exceed their standards for plaque and tartar control. They are also recognized by the American Animal Hospital Association. 

Some examples of VOHC-approved pet oral rinses or water additives are:

- Vets Preferred Water Additive Oral Care for Dogs

- Petlab Co. Dog Dental Formula

- Oxyfresh Pet Dental Water Additive

- TropiClean Fresh Breath Oral Care Water Additive

These products are lightly flavored or odorless, so they can easily be mixed with your pet's water without affecting their taste preferences. They also contain natural or enzymatic ingredients that help break down plaque and tartar and eliminate bad breath.

In conclusion, pet oral rinses or water additives can be a beneficial addition to your pet's dental care routine, as long as they are used correctly and safely. Always consult your veterinarian before using any new product on your pet and follow the instructions on the label. Remember that nothing can replace regular brushing, dental check-ups, and professional cleanings for your pet's oral health. 

My recommendation: I included links for the most reasonably priced dental rinses that are mentioned about. Personally, I like and have used Oxyfresh. I like it because you can use it for cats and dogs and has a good reputation. My pets also did not experience any intestinal issues with this product. My numerous petsitting clients did not either. I have no experience with the other products, but they are still rated highly by a respectable organization. I do not include a link to Petlab because I thought it was unreasonably priced.