Last updated Jun 23, 2024
An appropriately sized cat toothbrush should make dental care easier. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
One of the easiest ways to ensure your cat has a healthy smile is with routine dental maintenance. Yes, we mean brushing your cat’s teeth on the daily. We know it’s a daunting task, but the right toothbrush can make it an easier one.
A toothbrush intended for human use will almost certainly be too large, so it’s a good idea to purchase a toothbrush specifically for cats. To help you choose the right one, we researched the market for the very best cat toothbrushes. Here are our top seven recommendations, plus an explainer on why brushing your cat’s teeth is so important.
At a Glance: Best Cat Toothbrushes To Buy In 2024
One of the easiest ways to ensure your favorite pet has a healthy smile is through routine dental maintenance. Yes, we mean brushing your cat’s teeth on the daily. To help you do it properly, we went out and researched the entire market for the very best cat toothbrushes.
Petsmile Professional Pet Toothbrush
- Secure rubber grip helps you stay in control
- Tapered bristles effectively polish teeth
- Angled brush heads make it easier to reach back teeth and molars
Mind Up Microhead Toothbrush
- Tiny brush head
- Very soft bristles
- Conveniently angled brush head
RYERCAT Dual-Sided Cat Toothbrush
- Two functional brush heads: one for polishing teeth and one for picking out food particles
- Made from biodegradable cornstarch
- Small, family- and woman-owned company
Jasper 360° Finger Toothbrush
- All-around nubs give a comprehensive clean
- Each brush comes with its own plastic container
- Made from food-grade silicone, with no BPA or phthalates
Vetoquinol Enzadent Dual-Sided Cat & Dog Toothbrush
- Affordable option
- Soft bristles
- Brush heads are ergonomically angled
H&H Pets Cat & Small Dog Toothbrush
- Available in packs of 4 ($6.99) or 8 ($8.99)
- Comes in two colors (mint green and white)
- Shorter handle is more secure to hold
Sentry Petrodex Veterinary Strength Enzymatic Dental Kit
- Conveniently includes everything you need to get started with oral care
- Both toothbrushes are dishwasher-safe
- The toothpaste doesn’t foam, so there’s no need to rinse
Why Is Cat Dental Care Important?
By the time they reach four years of age, 50% to 90% of cats already exhibit signs of dental disease. As common as dental disease is, it often goes unnoticed because cats aren’t able to open their mouths and tell you when something is wrong.
In the wild, your cat would keep their teeth clean by chewing on raw bones, but domestic cats often have to rely on kibble, dental treats, or chew toys.
Though many pet food manufacturers will tell you dry cat food helps keep your cat’s teeth clean, the truth is it doesn’t do nearly enough to remove the plaque and tartar that form on the surface of your cat’s teeth and contribute to gingivitis.
A little plaque may not seem like a big deal, but if dental disease goes untreated, it could lead to severe pain and inflammation. It could make it hard for your cat to eat and drink comfortably and it could even result in bacteria leeching into the bloodstream, causing a systemic infection.
In severe cases, dental disease can make it necessary to have some of your cat’s teeth removed.
The absolute best thing you can do to protect your cat’s dental health and hygiene is to brush their teeth daily. If you’re not quite ready to brush your cat’s teeth, there are antiseptic gels and rinses you can use in the meantime to protect their oral hygiene. These products won’t be as effective as toothbrushing, but they’re better than doing nothing. You may also be able to get a dental spray from your veterinarian to help control plaque and tartar buildup in your cat’s mouth.
Why Trust Cats.com
To get a sense of what brush types worked well for other cat parents, I read dozens of customer reviews across a variety of retail platforms. I also considered a range of cat comfort levels to find suitable choices for nervous cats, kittens, and first-timers.
In testing, I evaluated each brush’s bristle arrangement and level of firmness. I also considered how they felt in my hand, taking into account the shape, brush angles, and rubber grips. Then, I tested them on my cat, Floyd, to see how feasible they were to get into his mouth.
Our rankings are determined by a variety of factors. Each cat will have different needs and preferences, so while the Petsmile Professional Pet Toothbrush is our top choice, it might not be ideal for your unique cat. To help you choose the right toothbrush for your cat, we’ve broken down our recommendations by life stage, brush types, value, and other key considerations.
#1 Overall Best: Petsmile Professional Pet Toothbrush
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
There’s a lot we like about Petsmile’s dual-ended pet toothbrush. First, the bristles are uniquely tapered, with shorter ones in the front and taller bristles in the back. This design is more effective at polishing a cat’s razor-like teeth. Additionally, the center row of bristles cleans below the gum line, where plaque tends to accumulate.
The Petsmile’s bristles feel soft—but not too soft. They’re gentle enough for sensitive gums, but they’ll still get the job done. Both brush ends are angled to help get to hard-to-reach areas in the back of the mouth.
Floyd inspects the Petsmile toothbrush. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
What I really liked was the way the Petsmile felt in my hand. The textured rubber grip made it feel comfortable and secure, which is especially useful if you have a squirmer. Although you have two brush heads to work with, most cats will only use the smaller end.
What We Liked:
- Secure rubber grip helps you stay in control
- Tapered bristles effectively polish teeth
- Angled brush heads make it easier to reach back teeth and molars
What We Didn’t Like:
- Pricier than others ($14 on Chewy)
- The larger end will be too large for most cats
#2 Best for Kittens: Mind Up Microhead Toothbrush
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Tiny kittens come with tiny mouths, so they’ll do best with a brush that’s gentle and appropriately sized. The Mind Up Microhead is one of the smallest toothbrushes we could find. Designed specifically for cats, the round cluster of bristles is super small, and the compact handle offers good control.
This brush even came with a spare brush head that you can swap out when the original gets worn down, reducing plastic waste. I thought the head felt super secure; however, some cat parents noted that it became loose with regular use.
What We Liked:
- Tiny brush head
- Very soft bristles
- Conveniently angled brush head
- Comes with a spare brush head
- Good value (only $6.29 on Amazon)
What We Didn’t Like:
- Less sturdy
- Some reviews mention the brush head became loose
#3 Best Dual-Headed: RYERCAT Dual-Sided Cat Toothbrush
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
A lot of pet toothbrushes are designed with two brush heads on either end. But this dual-ended toothbrush from Canadian brand RYERCAT stands out from the rest. Whereas most brushes feature a small end and a (mostly useless) large end, this toothbrush features a cat-sized brush on one side and a unique “pick” at the other—which makes it more functional than most dual-sided brushes.
The rounded microhead brush is under a centimeter in size (0.4 inches) and made with nylon bristles of medium softness (on par with the Petsmile but firmer than the Mind Up). The pointed end has a slightly rougher feel and is made with bamboo bristles. This side lets you pick out food particles from the back teeth where they tend to get stuck. The bristles are also infused with charcoal to help absorb plaque.
While Floyd didn’t love it, the RYERCAT was pretty easy to use. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
The RYERCAT is available in seven attractive colors, which isn’t just an aesthetic detail but serves a practical purpose, too. If you have multiple cats, you can assign a different color to each one to avoid sharing germs. It costs a pretty penny, as toothbrushes go. But it’s still more cost-effective than paying a steep dental bill.
What We Liked:
- Two functional brush heads: one for polishing teeth and one for picking out food particles
- Made from biodegradable cornstarch
- Small, family- and woman-owned company
- Available in several fun colors
What We Didn’t Like:
- Most expensive option ($19.49 on Amazon)
#4 Best Finger Brush: Jasper 360° Finger Toothbrush
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Finger toothbrushes can be a good entry point to brushing because some cats find them less invasive than traditional long-handled brush.
Developed alongside a veterinary dental specialist, these finger brushes feature silicone nubs over their entire surface. This design makes it easier to clean every tooth quickly—a major win if your pet dislikes toothbrushing. And the texture is soft, which is particularly important if you’re using it on a cat that’s wary about brushing.
Theoretically, the brushes are designed to fit both thin and thicker fingers. By adding a few drops of water, the silicone is supposed to expand for larger fingers or create a tighter seal for smaller fingers. However, I didn’t find this to be very effective. These brushes felt comfortable on my fingers, but personally, I prefer the control afforded by a regular brush.
The four-pack is available in multiple colors, so muti-cat homes can designate one for each kitty. Each brush comes with its own plastic storage container, too. You can sterilize the brushes by boiling them.
What We Liked:
- All-around nubs give a comprehensive clean
- Each brush comes with its own plastic container
- Made from food-grade silicone, with no BPA or phthalates
- Available in four-packs of blue, clear, or multi-colored (best for multi-cat homes)
What We Didn’t Like:
- Adding water didn’t seem to help create a seal
- Probably not the best option if your cat bites
#5 Best Budget: Vetoquinol Enzadent Dual-Sided Cat & Dog Toothbrush
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
While most cat toothbrushes won’t break the bank, they do need to be replaced regularly. To avoid the expense of pricey replacements, consider this simple Vetoquinol toothbrush, reasonably priced at $6.99.
The bristles are moderately soft (comparable to the PetSmile), and the brush heads are ergonomically angled to reach back teeth better. On the downside, the handle is pretty long and not the easiest to grip. But if you’re just looking for something basic and affordable, this makes a fine choice.
What We Liked:
- Affordable option
- Soft bristles
- Brush heads are ergonomically angled
What We Didn’t Like:
- Only available in one color
- The larger brush head will likely be too big for most cats
- The handle is quite long and not the most comfortable to hold
#6 Best Multi-Pack: H&H Pets Cat & Small Dog Toothbrush
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Whether you’re shopping for a multi-cat home or just looking to have back-ups on hand, these affordable H&H toothbrushes are a good option. They’re available in packs of four or eight, and they come in white and mint green so each cat can have their own color.
Size-wise, these brushes are “just right.” Unlike the majority of pet toothbrushes on Chewy, they’re designed specifically for cats and small-breed dogs. The handle is shorter than most, and it felt comfortable and secure in my hands. The bristle area is about 0.25” by 0.5”.
The bristles are on the soft side: slightly rougher than our kitten selection (Mind Up) but definitely softer than the PetSmile, Vetoquinol, and Sentry brushes.
What We Liked:
- Available in packs of 4 ($6.99) or 8 ($8.99)
- Comes in two colors (mint green and white)
- Shorter handle is more secure to hold
What We Didn’t Like:
- Brush heads are not angled
#7 Best Dental Kit: Sentry Petrodex Veterinary Strength Enzymatic Dental Kit
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Get everything you need to take care of your cat’s teeth with this all-in-one dental kit. This kit includes a small angled toothbrush, a finger toothbrush, and a 2.5-ounce tube of enzymatic toothpaste formulated specifically for cats.
Developed by a veterinarian, the regular toothbrush has a slightly angled head and a shorter handle. The bristles are a bit more abrasive than the others in this lineup, so it won’t be ideal for super sensitive gums. The finger brush is quite solid, not pliable like the Jasper finger toothbrushes. And it was a hair too big for my fingers (but I have very small fingers). Both brushes are dishwasher-safe.
The Sentry’s small handle provided good control. Liz Coleman / Cats.com
My cat tolerated the malt-flavored toothpaste OK (though I discovered in testing he’s not crazy about any toothpaste). Plenty of customers report that their cats love the taste.
What We Liked:
- Conveniently includes everything you need to get started with oral care
- Both toothbrushes are dishwasher-safe
- The toothpaste doesn’t foam, so there’s no need to rinse
What We Didn’t Like:
- The toothpaste contains sorbitol
- Finger brush isn’t very bendy or flexible
How To Choose the Right Toothbrush for Your Cat
If you’re not sure which brush to choose, buy a few (they aren’t expensive) and give them a try to see which your cat will tolerate. Once you’ve settled on a toothbrush, be sure to clean it thoroughly after each use and replace the brush entirely every three months or so. If you have more than one cat, be sure to get each cat their own toothbrush.
You’ll encounter two main types of cat toothbrushes:
Finger Brushes
This type of toothbrush slips over your finger (like a thimble), so you can insert your finger directly into your cat’s mouth to do the brushing. Finger brushes have soft, silicone nubs that gently clean your cat’s teeth, but they might not work as well against serious tartar buildup. You might need to start with a finger brush and then upgrade to a handle brush later.
Handle Brushes
These toothbrushes are similar to the human toothbrush you use on your teeth—they consist of a handle with soft bristles on one end. Handle brushes can be useful for reaching your cat’s back teeth and some have angled heads to make brushing less awkward. They can be a little more difficult to use but do a better job removing plaque and tartar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of toothbrush is best for a cat?
The best cat toothbrush is one your pet will tolerate. Traditional handle brushes are more effective at removing plaque and reaching back teeth. But some cats are more accepting of a silicone finger brush. Consider your cat’s personality and your own preferences. You can always switch to a different style if your cat rejects the first one.
Can I brush my cat’s teeth with my finger?
It won’t have the same effect as cleaning with a brush, but it’s better than nothing! If your cat tolerates it better, a finger wrapped in gauze can at least work toothpaste into their mouth. For newbies, in particular, this may be a good way to introduce brushing.
Is it too late to brush my cat’s teeth?
It’s never too late! If you have an older cat, it might take a little bit longer to acclimate them to the process, but it can certainly be done. If your cat has significant tartar buildup, consider a professional cleaning to help remove it (toothbrushing alone can’t do this). After that, you can make regular brushing a part of your cat’s routine.
How do I keep my cat’s teeth clean without brushing?
Brushing daily is the best way to maintain dental health. But there are alternative ways to promote oral hygiene, including dental treats, dental kibble, water additives, oral rinses, powder supplements, and topical gels. Even if you are brushing your cat’s teeth, these are all good things to add to your routine. Look for products that have earned the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Approval.
How often should I replace my cat’s toothbrush?
Replace your cat’s toothbrush every three months or so.
What brand of toothbrush are you using in your “Top 10 things I wish I’d known” video? I do not see it here in the top 10, but in the video it looks to have a unique and effective bristle design.
Also, Vets Best does not say it is for cats, at least not that I’ve found. Is that the brand being used in the same video? Your hand is covering the full brand name. I assume it is safe for cats, then?
Thanks.
Hi Nancy, thanks for the comment! The toothpaste is not Vet’s Best but Vetoquinol’s Enzadent toothpaste, which is one of my top recommendations for cat-specific toothpaste. Regarding the toothbrush, it’s actually a dog toothbrush, but it’s small enough to work in a confident/comfortable cat’s mouth. This particular product is no longer available, but it appears to be similar to these. Unfortunately, I haven’t used the linked brushes to know if they’re small enough for a cat’s mouth, but it might be worth a shot. – Mallory
I appreciate this community and all it does to keep information flowing between cat lovers. I wanted to suggest that when this list gets updated next you guys should really check out the Ryer Cat toothbrush. It easily fits into both of my cats’ mouths and it was literally designed specifically for cats. Thanks!
Hi Danielle, thanks for the recommendation!