As a cat owner, you might be curious about your cat's dental health and how many teeth they have. Cats, like humans, have two sets of teeth throughout their lives, but they start with a set of deciduous (baby) teeth that eventually fall out, making way for their permanent adult teeth. In this article, we’ll answer the question "how many teeth do cats have?" and provide insights into their dental development and care.

1. How Many Teeth Do Cats Have?

Adult cats typically have 30 teeth in total. These are divided into different types, each serving a specific function to help cats with their carnivorous diet, which involves tearing and slicing meat.

Breakdown of a Cat’s Teeth:

• Incisors: 12 total (6 on the top and 6 on the bottom)
  • Located at the front of the mouth, the incisors are the small, sharp teeth used for grasping and nibbling food.
• Canines: 4 total (2 on the top and 2 on the bottom)
  • Also called fangs, the canines are large, pointed teeth that cats use to grasp and pierce prey. These are the most prominent and important teeth for carnivores.
• Premolars: 10 total (5 on the top and 5 on the bottom)
  • Premolars are located behind the canines and are used for shearing and grinding food into smaller pieces. Cats typically have 3 premolars on each side of the upper jaw and 2 on each side of the lower jaw.
• Molars: 4 total (2 on the top and 2 on the bottom)
  • Molars are located at the back of the mouth and are used for grinding food. Unlike humans, cats don’t have upper molars with large grinding surfaces but instead have pointed molars that help to crush and shred meat.

The Importance of Teeth for Cats:

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their teeth are specially designed for a meat-based diet. The incisors are used for grooming and nipping at smaller pieces of food, while the canines help to grab, hold, and pierce prey. The premolars and molars, while less prominent, assist in slicing and grinding their food, although cats don’t chew their food in the same way humans do.

2. When Do Cats Get Their Teeth?

Cats are born without teeth, and their teeth start to develop as they grow. Here’s a general timeline for when different sets of teeth appear in cats:

2.1 Deciduous (Baby) Teeth

• When they appear: Kittens are born with no teeth, but their deciduous (baby) teeth begin to come in around 2 to 3 weeks of age.
• How many do they have? By the time kittens are about 6 weeks old, they will have a full set of 26 baby teeth, including incisors, canines, and premolars.
• When they fall out: These baby teeth will start to fall out around 3 to 4 months of age as the permanent adult teeth start coming in.

2.2 Permanent (Adult) Teeth

• When they appear: The permanent teeth begin to emerge at around 4 to 6 months of age, starting with the incisors and canines, followed by the premolars and molars.
• How many do they have? By 7 to 8 months of age, your cat will typically have a full set of 30 permanent teeth.

It’s important to note that some cats may experience dental issues as they age, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or broken teeth, which is why regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining your cat’s oral health.

3. Common Dental Issues in Cats

Even though cats have relatively few teeth compared to humans, dental problems are quite common, especially as they age. Some common dental issues include:

3.1 Dental Disease

Dental disease is one of the most frequent health problems in cats. It usually starts with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and can progress to periodontal disease, which affects the tooth roots and supporting structures. Without proper care, this can lead to tooth loss and infections.

3.2 Tartar and Plaque Build-up

Cats can develop tartar and plaque on their teeth just like humans. This build-up occurs when bacteria mix with food particles, forming a sticky layer on the teeth. Over time, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum inflammation, bad breath, and potential tooth loss if not addressed.

3.3 Tooth Resorption

Tooth resorption is a painful condition that affects a significant percentage of cats. It occurs when the structure of the tooth starts to break down and dissolve, often causing pain and tooth loss. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is more common in older cats.

3.4 Broken Teeth

Cats with broken or fractured teeth may experience pain, difficulty eating, or infection. This is especially common in cats that engage in rough play, chew on hard objects, or hunt live prey.

3.5 Bad Breath (Halitosis)

While some level of bad breath is normal in cats, especially if they eat wet food, persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental disease, tooth decay, or gum infections.

4. How to Care for Your Cat’s Teeth

Maintaining your cat’s dental health is crucial for their overall well-being. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your cat’s teeth stay healthy:

4.1 Regular Brushing

One of the most effective ways to keep your cat's teeth clean is by brushing them regularly. Use a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (do not use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to cats). Try to brush your cat’s teeth at least 2–3 times a week to remove plaque and tartar.

4.2 Dental Treats and Chews

There are various dental treats and chew toys designed to help reduce plaque and tartar build-up. Look for products that are endorsed by veterinary dental organizations, as these have been proven to be effective in improving oral health.

4.3 Dental Diets

Some cat foods are specially formulated to support dental health by helping to reduce plaque build-up. These foods often have larger kibble sizes or a special texture designed to clean teeth as the cat chews. Consult your vet to determine if a dental-specific diet is right for your cat.

4.4 Regular Vet Check-ups

Routine veterinary check-ups should include a dental examination, where the vet will check for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental issues. If needed, your vet may recommend a professional cleaning to remove tartar and plaque that can’t be removed with brushing.

4.5 Watch for Warning Signs

Keep an eye on your cat’s behavior for any signs of dental problems, such as:

• Bad breath
• Drooling
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Pawing at the mouth
• Red or swollen gums

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your cat examined by a veterinarian.

5. Conclusion: How Many Teeth Do Cats Have?

Cats typically have 30 teeth in total, with 12 incisors, 4 canines, 10 premolars, and 4 molars. These teeth are specially adapted for their carnivorous diet, helping them tear and slice meat effectively. Kittens are born without teeth, and their adult teeth usually appear around 4 to 6 months of age.

Just like humans, cats need regular dental care to prevent problems such as gum disease, tartar build-up, and tooth decay. Brushing your cat’s teeth, providing dental treats, and scheduling regular vet check-ups are essential steps in ensuring your cat maintains good oral health throughout their life. By staying on top of your cat’s dental needs, you can help them live a longer, healthier life with a beautiful smile.