Kittens, like human babies, go through a teething phase. Their tiny, needle-sharp baby teeth eventually fall out to make way for a full set of adult teeth. If you’ve noticed your kitten chewing on everything in sight or found a tiny tooth on the floor, don’t worry—this is a normal part of their development.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about kitten teething, from when their teeth fall out to how to help them through the process.
Understanding Kitten Teeth Development
A kitten’s dental development happens in distinct stages:
1. Birth to 2 Weeks: No Teeth Yet
Kittens are born toothless. During this stage, they rely entirely on their mother’s milk or a bottle for nutrition.
2. 2 to 4 Weeks: Baby Teeth Emerge
At around 2-3 weeks old, a kitten’s first teeth, called deciduous teeth (or milk teeth), start coming in. These sharp little teeth help them begin the weaning process.
3. 4 to 6 Weeks: Full Set of Baby Teeth
By about 6 weeks of age, kittens have a full set of 26 baby teeth. At this point, they start experimenting with solid food.
4. 3 to 6 Months: Baby Teeth Fall Out
At around 12 weeks (3 months), kittens start losing their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. The process continues until they are around 6 months old when they will have a full set of 30 permanent teeth.
When Do Kittens Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Here’s a breakdown of when kittens typically lose specific teeth:
- Incisors (Front Teeth) – Around 3-4 months
- Canines (Fangs) – Around 5 months
- Premolars (Back Teeth) – Around 4-6 months
- Molars – Unlike humans, kittens don’t have baby molars—adult molars come in directly at about 4-5 months
By 6-7 months, your kitten should have all 30 adult teeth fully developed.
Signs That a Kitten Is Teething
Teething can be uncomfortable for kittens, just like it is for human babies. Here are some common signs to watch for:
1. Increased Chewing
Kittens may chew on toys, furniture, wires, and even your fingers to relieve discomfort. Providing appropriate teething toys can help.
2. Drooling
Excessive drooling is common as new teeth break through the gums.
3. Mild Gum Bleeding
A little bit of pinkish saliva or spotting on toys is normal, but excessive bleeding may indicate a dental issue.
4. Decreased Appetite or Difficulty Eating
Sore gums can make eating uncomfortable. Softening dry food or offering wet food can help during this phase.
5. Pawing at the Mouth
If your kitten frequently paws at their mouth, it could be a sign of teething discomfort.
6. Play Biting and Nipping
Kittens may bite more during teething. Redirecting them to safe chew toys can prevent unwanted biting behavior.
How to Help a Teething Kitten
While teething is natural, you can help ease your kitten’s discomfort with these tips:
1. Provide Teething Toys
Offer kitten-safe rubber or silicone teething toys to satisfy their chewing instinct. Avoid small objects that could be swallowed.
2. Chill Teething Toys
Placing a toy in the fridge (not freezer) can provide cooling relief for sore gums.
3. Offer Soft Food
Wet food or softened kibble can make eating easier if chewing is painful.
4. Use a Cold, Damp Cloth
Some kittens enjoy chewing on a cold, wet washcloth for relief.
5. Avoid Encouraging Finger Biting
Although it may seem cute, allowing kittens to bite your hands can lead to painful bites as they grow. Redirect them to toys instead.
Should You Worry If You Don’t Find Lost Teeth?
Most kittens swallow their baby teeth while eating or playing, which is completely normal and not harmful. If you don’t find any teeth, don’t worry—it just means they were swallowed or lost somewhere out of sight.
When to See a Vet for Teething Issues
Most kittens go through teething without problems, but sometimes dental issues arise. Contact your vet if you notice:
🚨 Retained Baby Teeth – If a baby tooth doesn’t fall out when the adult tooth comes in, it can cause misalignment or decay.
🚨 Excessive Drooling or Bleeding – A little drool is normal, but heavy drooling or significant bleeding could indicate an issue.
🚨 Persistent Bad Breath – While mild odor is normal, strong bad breath could be a sign of infection or dental disease.
🚨 Lack of Appetite or Weight Loss – If a kitten refuses food for more than a day, see a vet.
How to Care for Your Kitten’s New Adult Teeth
Once your kitten’s adult teeth are fully in, good dental hygiene is essential:
🦷 Start Brushing Early – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and cat-safe toothpaste to prevent tartar buildup.
🦷 Provide Dental Treats – Special cat dental treats or chews can help keep teeth clean.
🦷 Schedule Regular Vet Checkups – A vet can monitor for any early signs of gum disease or dental issues.
Final Thoughts
Yes, kittens’ teeth do fall out, and this process is completely normal! By understanding the teething timeline and providing the right care, you can help your kitten grow into a happy, healthy cat with strong teeth.
If you have any questions or concerns about your kitten’s teething, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Did you find this guide helpful? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below! 🐾
