Is it normal for cats to lose teeth? You’re not alone if you’ve ever noticed your cat missing a tooth or found a small fang on the floor. While some degree of cat tooth loss is natural—especially during kittenhood—tooth loss in adult cats often signals a deeper issue. Understanding what’s normal, what’s not, and how to protect your cat’s teeth can make all the difference in your feline friend’s lifelong oral health.
In this guide, we’ll examine the most common reasons cats lose teeth, the role of dental disease, and how to manage and prevent tooth loss in kittens and adults.
Kitten Tooth Loss: A Natural Part of Growth
For kittens, losing teeth is completely normal. Just like human babies, kittens lose their milk teeth (also known as baby teeth) to make room for their permanent adult teeth.
- Kittens are born toothless, and their first set of teeth begins to erupt at about 2–3 weeks of age.
- These kitten teeth total 26, including small, sharp incisors, canines, and premolars.
- Around 11–16 weeks of age, kittens lose their baby teeth as the permanent adult teeth come in, typically completing the process by six months.
If you find a tiny tooth in your home and your kitten is still growing, don’t worry—it’s likely part of this developmental process.
Signs of Teething in Kittens:
- Drooling
- Mild gum inflammation
- Pawing at the mouth
- Decreased interest in chewing
- Slight bad breath
In most cases, kitten tooth loss is harmless. However, if the milk teeth don’t fall out on their own or if you notice impacted teeth, it’s best to consult your vet.
Tooth Loss in Adult Cats: When It’s a Red Flag
While kittens lose their teeth naturally, tooth loss in an adult cat is abnormal and typically indicates a health concern. Cat losing teeth during adulthood often stems from dental disease, trauma, or other underlying health issues.
So, is it normal for cats to lose teeth after adulthood?
The short answer: No. Healthy adult teeth should last a lifetime. If your adult cat is missing one or more teeth, it’s time to dig deeper.
Common Causes of Tooth Loss in Adult Cats
1. Periodontal Disease
The number one reason adult cats lose teeth is periodontal disease, a severe infection of the gums and tooth-supporting structures caused by plaque and tartar buildup.
- It begins with gingivitis or gum inflammation.
- If left untreated, it progresses to periodontal disease, leading to swollen gums, painful teeth, and eventually tooth loss.
Many cats show signs of dental disease by the time they reach three years of age. Severe periodontal disease, caused by the spread of bacteria through the bloodstream, can affect not only the cat’s teeth but also other organs.
2. Tooth Resorption
Tooth resorption is a common, painful condition where the body starts breaking down the tooth’s structure, starting at or near the gum line.
- It’s also known as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs).
- The teeth begin to erode from the inside out, often leading to tooth loss.
While the cause isn’t fully understood, tooth resorption is estimated to affect over half of all adult cats and frequently requires teeth extraction.
3. Gum Disease
Gum disease, often related to poor oral hygiene, can lead to tooth loss if not addressed early. Similar to periodontal disease, it involves infection and inflammation of the gums that can damage surrounding bone and tissue.
- Warning signs include bad breath, swollen gums, bleeding, and reluctance to chew.
- Advanced gum disease may result in cat tooth loss, painful teeth, and even the need for oral surgery.
4. Trauma or Accidents
Sometimes, a cat loses teeth due to physical injury. This could be from:
- Falling from a height (cat falls)
- Fights with other animals
- Accidental impact during play
In these cases, the tooth loss is usually sudden and may involve broken teeth or visible bleeding in the cat’s mouth.
5. Underlying Medical Conditions
Other conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, oral infections, and systemic illnesses, can contribute to tooth loss. Chronic conditions can weaken the gums and surrounding structures, making it easier for teeth to fall out.
Signs Your Cat May Be Losing Teeth
Cats are masters at hiding pain. That’s why it’s essential to be vigilant about dental issues. Watch for:
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food
- Bad breath
- Pawing at the mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Visible missing teeth
- Refusal to eat dry food
- Weight loss
- Swelling in the cat’s mouth
If your cat stops eating or avoids food they normally enjoy, it may be a sign of dental disease or painful teeth.
Diagnosing Tooth Loss in Cats
If you suspect your cat is losing teeth, the first step is to visit a veterinarian. A health check-up including a full oral exam, x-rays, and evaluation of the gum line, will help identify:
- The underlying cause
- Any remaining teeth that may be damaged or infected
- The severity of dental disease or tooth resorption
Depending on the diagnosis, your vet may recommend a dental procedure, such as cleaning, extraction, or surgery.
Treatment and Management
1. Teeth Extraction
If tooth resorption, severe periodontal disease, or trauma is present, your vet may recommend having one or more than one tooth removed. Cats can live happy lives with few or no teeth if their mouth is healthy and pain-free.
2. Antibiotics and Pain Relief
Infections in the cat’s mouth are typically treated with antibiotics. Your vet may also prescribe pain medication to keep your cat comfortable during healing.
3. Dental Cleanings
Regular professional cleanings help prevent the progression of gum disease and plaque buildup. Most cats benefit from an annual dental procedure under anesthesia.
4. At-Home Dental Care
Brushing your cat’s teeth, providing dental chews, and using vet-approved oral rinses can significantly reduce the risk of tooth loss.
Preventing Tooth Loss: Tips for Healthy Cat Teeth
Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to keep your cat’s teeth and gums in top shape:
1. Routine Vet Visits
Schedule regular health checkups to detect early signs of dental disease. Early treatment can prevent painful tooth loss later.
2. Dental-Friendly Diet
Some dry food and specially formulated dental diets help reduce plaque and tartar. Ask your vet for recommendations tailored to your cat’s needs.
3. Daily Brushing
Brushing your cat’s teeth with cat-safe toothpaste helps remove debris and bacteria before they become plaque.
4. Dental Treats and Toys
Offer toys and treats that support oral health and reduce build-up.
Can Cats Live Without Teeth?
Absolutely. Many cats with missing teeth or all the teeth removed adapt well to eating soft or moistened food. They may require some adjustments to their routine, but with proper care, they can thrive.
It’s important to remember that the goal is a pain-free, healthy mouth. Keeping infected or painful teeth only prolongs suffering. In many cases, removing the affected teeth significantly improves a cat’s quality of life.
Conclusion
So, is it normal for cats to lose teeth? It depends.
- Yes, it’s normal for kittens to lose their baby teeth as their permanent adult teeth come in.
- No, it’s not normal for adult cats to lose teeth without an underlying reason—most commonly dental disease, tooth resorption, or trauma.
Early detection, regular veterinary care, and daily at-home dental hygiene are the best ways to preserve your cat’s teeth and oral health. If you notice signs of cat tooth loss, don’t wait. Schedule a vet visit to get to the root of the problem and keep your feline friend smiling—fangs or not.
References
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6769323/
https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/it-normal-cats-lose-their-teeth
https://jn.nutrition.org/article/S0022-3166(22)08373-0/fulltext
