In this blog, we have discussed about how many teeth do cats have! They have a variety of teeth for various roles, and we’ve covered all of them in this article.
Did you know, like us, felines have two sets of teeth in their lifetime? When they’re kittens, they get milk teeth, and when they’re adults, they have permanent teeth!
Well, the cat’s dental health is necessary! Every cat owner should know things regarding how many teeth do cats have. It will help them maintain their cat’s oral health and keep all dental issues away.
How Many Teeth Does a Cat Have?
In this section, you will learn how many teeth do cats have. We will discuss its function also.
So, let’s get started!
Well, ideally, a kitten cat teeth number is 26. These are temporary teeth popularly referred to as baby teeth or deciduous. Four canines, twelve incisors, and ten premolars make up their teeth.
And, adult cat teeth number is 30. These are long-lasting teeth, also referred to as adult teeth. They have twelve incisors, ten premolars, four molars, and four canines. As a result, the infant kitten has twenty-six teeth due to the absence of four molars.
Kittens are toothless when they are born. They get their first set of teeth when they are two weeks. By the end of four months, you can see all baby teeth. And, cat adult teeth start to grow after they reach eleven weeks.
So, basically, there are canines, molars, premolars, and incisors, and each one has a distinct purpose.
1. Cat Canines
The texture of canines is very sharp, and it is used to tear the flesh. They use this set of canines to kill their prey. Cat’s large canines are basically used for shooting prey.
2. Cat Incisors
Incisors are little teeth that sit between the canines. They are situated in the front of their mouth. Incisors do not come into use while eating flesh and killing prey. They’re known to be utilized for grooming and dragging things up. To keep their fur clean, cats gnaw on their incisors. These cat front teeth have another name called “Cat grooming teeth.”
3. Cat Premolars
Premolars are used for crushing the food. The surface area of premolars is a bit flat as compared to incisors and canines.
4. Cat Molars
Molars are placed behind the premolars and are responsible for churning the food and swallowing it.
FUN FACT: Cat’s molars are premolars are called “carnassial” teeth which means there are rooted 3 teeth.
So, this was complete information on how many teeth do cats have! Now, you have all the information on cat teeth number and kitten teeth number.
PRO TIP: Make sure you keep your cat’s teeth clean and regularly visit your Vet. Why? Because if you don’t, your cat may suffer from a various dental diseases such as tooth loss, gum disease, and/or periodontal disease!
FAQs
Do cats have canine teeth?
Yes, cats do have canine teeth. Kittens and adult cats both have four canines. Canines are used to cut the flesh and kill the prey with the grip. It is very sharp in texture which helps to give a cat a better grip.
How many teeth does a cat need?
Cats have thirty sets of teeth, which they require throughout their lives to perform the essential functions of eating, chewing, nibbling, and grooming.
How many teeth does an adult cat have?
A senior cat has 30 sets of pearly white teeth in its life. They have 10 premolars, 4 molars, 4 canines, and 12 incisors. You can keep these 30 teeth of your cat healthy by visiting your vet regularly.
How many teeth do kittens have?
Kittens have 26 teeth, majorly known as deciduous; they are temporary. These infant’s teeth grow nearly the age of four months in kittens. There are four canines, twelve incisors, and ten premolars on their teeth.
So basically, they lack 4 molars when they are kittens.
Do all cats have the same number of teeth?
Kittens have 26 teeth, while cats have 30 eternal teeth. Molars, premolars, canines, and incisors are present in all cats. Domestic cat teeth are also the same.
Upper canines are called fangs which are used to groom their fur. They use canines to cut out the flesh and use molars and premolars to chew the food.
Well, That’s a Wrap!
Now, you know that there are 4 different types of cat teeth: Canines, Incisors, Premolars, and Molars. Each of these teeth has a different function. Some teeth are sharp, while some are flat. But all of them are important when it is about having a happy dental life for your cat.
While kittens have 26 baby teeth, they are replaced by 30 permanent teeth once they are 7 months!
If you like this article on how many teeth do cats have, do let us know in the comment section, and make sure to share this with other cat owners too!
References
- Cat Anatomy – Wikipedia
- Ever wondered why your cat’s tongue feels like sandpaper? – PBS NewsHour
- 9 Interesting Facts About Cat Teeth – PetMD