From playful kittens to wise old whiskers, every cat needs healthy teeth. Understanding the different stages of cat teeth go through can help you spot what’s normal and what’s not.
Whether your kitten is teething or your senior cat is showing signs of tooth pain, good dental health plays a role in their comfort, eating habits, and overall well-being. Our vets explain what to expect and how to care for your cat’s teeth as they grow up and get older.
A Cat’s Dental Development, By Age
- 0–6 Months:
Kittens grow 26 baby teeth, starting when they’re around six weeks old. They start losing their baby teeth when they’re about three months old. - 6 Months–2 Years:
By this time, the adult teeth have fully emerged. You’ll need to start brushing your cat’s teeth and checking them for yellowish tartar buildup. - 3–6 Years:
Dental disease often begins at this age. Watch for signs like bad breath or red gums that might indicate dental problems. - 12+ Years:
Senior cats may develop tooth resorption or experience tooth loss. Regular dental exams are important for preventing pain and improving quality of life.
When Do Kittens Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Kittens get their baby teeth when they’re around six weeks old. These sharp little teeth begin to fall out at around 11 to 12 weeks of age, when their adult teeth start to come in.
Teething can cause mild discomfort, so you may notice increased chewing or slight irritability. Most baby teeth are lost during play or swallowed, so you may not see them fall out.
How Many Teeth Do Cats Have?
Kittens have 26 baby teeth, or deciduous teeth, that include incisors, canines, and premolars.
By adulthood, cats have 30 permanent teeth: 12 incisors, 4 canines, 10 premolars, and 4 molars, and they are all designed for gripping, tearing, and shearing food. Keeping these teeth clean is key to maintaining oral health and comfort throughout their life.
Caring for Your Cat’s Teeth at Every Stage
Cats have different dental care needs as they grow older. And because cats live a long time, dental care is very important. It helps prevent premature tooth loss and unnecessary pain. Here’s how to care for your cat’s teeth from kittenhood to their senior years.
- Kittens (0–6 Months):
Get your kitten used to having their mouth touched gently. Offer soft chew toys and begin introducing a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste. - Teenages/Young Adults (6 Months–2 Years):
Start a brushing routine and provide dental treats or toys. Preventive care helps reduce tartar buildup and supports healthy gums. - Adults (3–6 Years):
Schedule annual dental checkups with your veterinarian. Watch for signs of early dental disease, like bad breath or inflamed gums. - Seniors (12+ Years):
Older cats may need professional cleanings or tooth extractions. Cats that are missing teeth will need softer food, gentle at-home care, and more frequent checkups.
Veterinary and Dental Care for Cats in Harker Heights
Understanding the stages of cat teeth go through will help you stay ahead of dental issues and keep your cat feeling their best at every age. From teething kittens to aging seniors, each phase brings unique dental needs—but with the right care, your cat can enjoy healthy, pain-free teeth for their entire lifetime.
If you have questions about your cat’s dental health or need to schedule an exam, contact Aztec Pet Hospital today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (08/13/2025) Image by Annette Meyer from Pixabay