Why Hydration is Essential for Your Cat’s Health: Insights from Dr. Kelly Halls
As a cat owner, ensuring they are well-hydrated can seem straightforward—but did you know that proper hydration plays a vital role in their overall health, including their dental health? Dr. Kelly Halls, veterinarian and owner at Bentons Road Vet Clinic with over 22 years of experience and a certificate in therapeutic natural nutrition, emphasises that a well-rounded approach to your cat’s health, including nutrition, hydration, and dental care, is essential to help them lead long, vibrant lives.
“Dental disease is far more common than you think. Most cats coming in to see me in the veterinary clinic have early signs of dental disease.”
Dr. Kelly explains that when dental care is neglected, it not only affects the mouth but can also lead to systemic health issues. Proper hydration and a nutritious diet can play an important role in helping to prevent these issues.
A consistent intake of water helps in multiple ways—from flushing toxins to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When cats are well-hydrated, their saliva production increases, which assists in reducing plaque build-up on their teeth. Cats are naturally less inclined to drink water than other animals as they’re descended from desert-dwellers, so it’s crucial to encourage drinking habits through fresh water sources, moisture-rich foods, and even hydration-promoting treats.
Dr. Kelly recommends a combination of natural, high-meat dental treats to support hydration and oral health in cats. “I recommend Bell & Bone Dental Bites for Cats because they have a high meat content, they’re made with natural ingredients, and they have the science-backed actives that are proven to prevent dental plaque and tartar,” she says.
Dental Disease and How to Prevent It
According to Dr. Kelly, “70% of cats suffer from dental disease by the time they’re three years old.” This staggering statistic highlights the importance of regular dental care as part of your cat’s health routine.
Bell & Bone’s Cat Dental Bites are designed specifically to tackle this issue. Their formula includes cellulose, which “helps the chew to keep its structure and allows the tooth to go through it and mechanically clean the teeth.” This mechanical action, combined with science-backed ingredients, makes Bell & Bone Dental Bites an effective tool in promoting dental health.
How Bell & Bone’s Cat Dental Bites Support Oral Health and Hydration
Incorporating dental treats like Bell & Bone’s Cat Dental Bites into your cat’s routine can help improve their dental health, while also encouraging chewing—an action that naturally promotes saliva production, aiding in hydration.
The ingredients in Bell & Bone Cat Dental Bites are selected to support overall wellness:
- High meat content: “Meat as the first ingredient... promotes the good bacteria from growing and inhibits the bad bacteria from growing,” Dr. Kelly notes.
- Cellulose and calcium carbonate: These elements support strong teeth and gum health by allowing for an abrasive cleaning action and supporting periodontal strength.
- Stabilised Vitamin C: As Dr. Kelly explains, “It reduces inflammation and promotes wound healing,” which is crucial for cats prone to gingivitis or inflamed gums.
- Zinc sulphate and seaweed: Ingredients like zinc sulphate work to “reduce the pathogenic bacteria from binding to the teeth and gums,” while Ascophyllum Nodosum seaweed helps prevent plaque from sticking to teeth.
Expert Tips for Keeping Your Cat Hydrated
- Fresh water: Always ensure there is fresh, clean water available for your cat.
- Wet food: Including wet food in their diet can increase their overall water intake. Just make sure to read the ingredient list and look out for high salt content and nasties.
- Dental treats: Incorporate Bell & Bone Dental Bites as a treat that promotes both hydration and dental health.
“If your cat’s breath smells, I recommend giving Bell & Bone Dental Bites every single day,” Dr. Kelly says, underscoring the importance of consistent dental care.
By following Dr. Kelly’s expert advice and including Bell & Bone’s Cat Dental Bites in your cat’s daily routine, you can help ensure they stay hydrated, maintain healthy teeth, and enjoy a longer, healthier life.
