Cats, like humans, undergo two sets of teeth throughout their lives: deciduous (baby) teeth and permanent (adult) teeth. The total number of teeth a cat possesses can vary depending on its age and overall dental health. In this article, we’ll delve into the number, types, and functions of a cat’s teeth. Let’s see in detail about How many teeth do cats have.
How many teeth do cats have
Deciduous (Baby) Teeth in cats:
Similar to human infants, kittens are born without teeth. However, as they grow, they develop deciduous teeth, often referred to as baby or milk teeth. These deciduous teeth begin to emerge around the age of two to three weeks and play a crucial role during the early stages of a cat’s life.
A complete set of deciduous teeth in a kitten’s mouth comprises 26 teeth. Here’s a breakdown of the types and numbers of deciduous teeth:
Incisors : Kittens have a total of 12 incisors, with six in the upper jaw and six in the lower jaw. Incisors are the small, front teeth primarily used for grooming and biting.
Canines : Four deciduous canines are present, with two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. These pointed teeth serve the purpose of tearing food and, in the case of kittens, grasping and carrying objects during play.
Premolars : Eight premolars are found in kittens, with four in the upper jaw and four in the lower jaw. Premolars have flat surfaces with small cusps and aid in grinding and shearing food.
Permanent (Adult) Teeth in cats :
As kittens grow into adulthood, their deciduous teeth gradually fall out, making room for the permanent set of teeth. Permanent teeth in cats are pivotal for their overall health, including hunting and food consumption.
A full set of permanent teeth in a healthy adult cat consists of 30 teeth. The breakdown of the types and numbers of permanent teeth in a cat’s mouth is as follows:
Incisors : Adult cats maintain 12 incisors, mirroring their deciduous set. Incisors continue to be essential for grooming and biting.
Canines : Cats possess four permanent canines, with two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. These sharp teeth are vital for grasping, tearing, and holding prey.
Premolars : Ten premolars are present in the permanent dentition, with five in each jaw. These premolars play a continuing role in grinding and shearing food.
Molars : Adult cats have four molars, two in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw. These molars are responsible for the final stages of food breakdown.
Dental Health in Cats :
Ensuring proper dental health in cats is essential for their overall well-being. Cats can develop dental issues, including periodontal disease and dental decay, which can lead to discomfort, pain, and health problems. Regular dental care, such as brushing your cat’s teeth and providing dental treats or toys, can help maintain their teeth’s cleanliness and health.
In some instances, dental problems may necessitate professional intervention by a veterinarian. This may encompass dental cleanings, extractions of damaged teeth, or other dental procedures aimed at addressing specific issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cats possess 26 deciduous (baby) teeth, gradually replaced by 30 permanent (adult) teeth as they mature into adulthood. These teeth serve vital functions in a cat’s life, including grooming, hunting, and food processing. Appropriate dental care is imperative to ensure the ongoing health and well-being of a cat’s teeth throughout their lifespan. So this is all about How many teeth do cats have.
