Which statement correctly identifies an example of an oral dentifrice ingredient used in pets?

• A. Chlorhexidine, zinc ascorbate
• B. Sodium chloride, peppermint
• C. Citric acid, sorbitol
• D. Aloe vera, glycerin

Answer: (C)

Pet dentifrices rely on non-medicated ingredients that make brushing tolerable and effective. Sorbitol is a classic humectant and sweetener used to keep the paste moist and palatable for pets, which helps with regular brushing. Citric acid provides a tangy flavor and helps stabilize the formula, so together these two ingredients illustrate common, everyday components found in many pet toothpastes. Other options mix ingredients that are less representative of a typical, nonmedicated dentifrice: one choice includes an antiseptic used in medicated pastes, another pairs a flavor with an ingredient not commonly used in standard formulations, and yet another combines a non-traditional botanical with a basic humectant. In short, sorbitol and citric acid together reflect familiar, non-pharmacologic dentifrice ingredients.