A cat’s teeth are highly specialized instruments that underpin their survival and behavior as natural predators. These structures allow cats to effectively capture, dismember, and consume prey, reflecting their carnivorous diet. Understanding feline dentition provides insight into their natural instincts and offers a foundation for recognizing their overall health.
Feline Dental Anatomy and Function
Adult cats possess 30 permanent teeth. It includes 12 incisors, 4 canines, 10 premolars, and 4 molars. The dental formula for an adult cat is 2(I3/3, C1/1, P3/2, M1/1), where numbers represent the quantity of each tooth type in one half of the upper and lower jaws, multiplied by two for the full mouth.
Incisors are small, sharp teeth at the front of the mouth, used primarily for grooming, nibbling small pieces of meat, and grasping. Flanking the incisors are the four canine teeth, which are long, curved, and fang-like. These are designed for puncturing, seizing, and holding prey with considerable pressure. Behind the canines, premolars and molars work together to shear and slice food into manageable pieces rather than grinding it.
The carnassial pair, composed of the largest upper premolar (the fourth) and the first lower molar, is a key feature of feline dentition. These teeth act like powerful shears, slicing through flesh and bone. Unlike omnivores, cats do not possess flat grinding surfaces on their molars, reflecting their obligate carnivorous nature.
Dental Development and Teething
Kittens are born without teeth, relying on nursing for nutrition during their initial weeks. Their first set of teeth, known as deciduous or “baby” teeth, begins to emerge around 2 to 4 weeks of age. Incisors usually appear first, followed by canines at 3 to 4 weeks, and then premolars between 4 to 6 weeks.
By 6 to 8 weeks old, a kitten usually has a complete set of 26 deciduous teeth, including 12 incisors, 4 canines, and 10 premolars. There are no deciduous molars; these only develop as part of their permanent dentition. This initial set of teeth aids in the transition from nursing to consuming solid foods.
The second phase of teething occurs as deciduous teeth begin to fall out, making way for permanent adult teeth. This process starts around 3 to 4 months of age and continues until the kitten is 6 to 7 months old, by which time they should have their full complement of 30 permanent teeth. Owners might notice mild gum discomfort, increased chewing, slight drooling, or even finding tiny shed teeth during this period.
Common Feline Dental Health Issues
Dental diseases are prevalent in cats, with a significant percentage over four years old experiencing some form of oral health issue. These conditions often begin with plaque, a bacterial film that accumulates on teeth, and can lead to more severe problems if not managed. Cats are adept at concealing pain, which can make early detection of dental disease challenging for owners.
Gingivitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation, redness, and swelling of the gums where they meet the teeth. This inflammation results from plaque buildup and, if left unaddressed, can progress to periodontitis. Signs of gingivitis include bad breath, reluctance to eat, or a preference for softer foods.
Periodontitis is an advanced and irreversible stage of dental disease where infection and inflammation spread to the tissues supporting the teeth, including gums, ligaments, and bone. Beyond gingivitis signs, cats with periodontitis may show gum recession, exposed tooth roots, loose teeth, or even tooth loss. This condition can also lead to systemic health problems if bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream.
Another common issue is tooth resorption, a process where the tooth structure breaks down, often starting internally. This painful condition can affect many middle-aged and older cats, with high prevalence. Signs may include a reluctance to eat, dropping food, or increased drooling. Regular veterinary dental check-ups and at-home care are important for prevention and early detection of these issues.