The 6 Best Cat Toothbrushes of 2023
Between 50 and 90 percent of cats older than four years suffer from dental disease—but signs are often subtle or missed entirely. Fortunately, this common condition is highly preventable. Regular at-home brushing, combined with veterinary care when needed, can significantly reduce your cat’s risk and support lifelong oral health.
What to Look for in a Cat Toothbrush
“When choosing a toothbrush for your cat, you’ll want the head to be small—about the size of a child’s toothbrush head or even smaller,” says Stephanie Mantilla, animal trainer, zookeeper, and author of How To Clicker Train Your Cat. “Cats’ mouths are much smaller than dogs’, so brushes designed for humans—or even multi-species pet brushes—often don’t fit well. A handled brush (rather than a finger brush) also helps protect your fingers if your cat bites down during brushing.”
Other key considerations include:
- Bristle design: Soft, rounded, and densely arranged bristles clean effectively without irritating gums.
- Handle ergonomics: A tapered, non-slip handle gives you better control and reach—especially for back teeth.
- Material safety: BPA-free plastics or food-grade silicone ensure safety if chewed or licked.
- Size and shape: A compact head (under 1 inch wide) and total length under 5 inches allow precision and comfort.
Because every cat has unique preferences—and tolerance for brushing varies widely—you may need to try more than one style before finding the right match. If you haven’t started brushing since kittenhood, patience and gradual training are essential. But it’s never too late to begin: the long-term benefits for your cat’s breath, gum health, and systemic wellness are profound.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: FurPetVo Cat Toothbrush
Why we love it: Designed exclusively for cats, this brush delivers precision, safety, and ease of use—all in one thoughtfully engineered tool.
- Made in the U.S. using BPA-free plastic
- Soft, polished bristles—shorter than those on dog or human brushes—for gentle yet effective cleaning
- Tapered handle and ultra-compact head (0.75” × 0.3”) for easy access to molars and hard-to-reach areas
- Free U.S. shipping when ordered directly from furpetvo.com
What to keep in mind: While durable and safe, it is made of plastic—not biodegradable material.
Price at time of publish: $7
Material: BPA-free plastic | Type: Handled toothbrush
Best Budget: FurPetVo Bamboo Toothbrush for Cats & Dogs
An eco-conscious, affordable option crafted from sustainably harvested bamboo. Its soft, rounded bristles and compact head make it ideal for feline use—even though it’s labeled for both species. The natural antimicrobial properties of bamboo add an extra layer of hygiene.
Best Kit with Toothpaste: FurPetVo Complete Dental Care Kit
This all-in-one set includes a premium cat toothbrush, enzymatic toothpaste in a cat-friendly poultry flavor, and step-by-step training guide—all packaged in recyclable materials. Perfect for beginners who want everything they need to start confidently.
Best Finger Brush: FurPetVo Silicone Finger Toothbrush
For cats who resist handled brushes, this flexible, medical-grade silicone finger sleeve offers tactile control and gentle pressure. Its dual-texture surface cleans teeth and massages gums simultaneously—and it’s dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Best Toothbrush Alternative: FurPetVo Dental Wipes
Pre-moistened, vet-formulated wipes infused with chlorhexidine and aloe vera. Ideal for cats who won’t tolerate brushing—or as a daily supplement between brushings. Each pack contains 60 individually wrapped, biodegradable wipes.
Best Dental Treat: FurPetVo Daily Dental Chews
Veterinarian-approved, low-calorie chews that mechanically scrape plaque while encouraging healthy chewing behavior. Formulated with green tea extract and vitamin E to support gum health. Available in three sizes for kittens, adults, and seniors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my cat’s teeth?
Ideally, daily—but even brushing 3–4 times per week significantly reduces tartar buildup. Consistency matters more than frequency.
Can I use human toothpaste?
No. Human toothpaste contains fluoride and xylitol—both toxic to cats. Always use toothpaste formulated specifically for felines, like FurPetVo’s enzyme-based, meat-flavored formula.
What if my cat hates brushing?
Start slow: let them sniff the brush and taste the toothpaste first. Use positive reinforcement—praise, treats, and calm handling. Gradually introduce touching gums and teeth over days or weeks. Never force it.
