Types of Teeth in Cats
Cat teeth are compose of four distinct types like humans :
- Incisors: Small teeth at the front of the mouth, used for grabbing and holding food.
- Canines: Sharp teeth immediately behind the incisors, designed for killing prey.
- Premolars: Used to slice food.
- Molars: Located at the very back, these teeth crush and chew food.
Permanent Teeth Eruption
Cats are born with primary teeth, known as milk teeth, gradually replaced by permanent teeth between 4 and 6 months of age. The eruption of permanent teeth occurs in this order:
- Incisors: Between 3½ and 4 months.
- Canines, premolars, and molars: Between 4 and 5 months.
Number of Teeth
Primary (milk) cat teeth:
- Each side of the upper jaw has 3 incisors, 1 canine, and 3 premolars.
- Each side of the lower jaw has 3 incisors, 1 canine, and 2 premolars.
- Total: 26 milk teeth.
Permanent cat teeth:
- Each side of the upper jaw includes 3 incisors, 1 canine, 3 premolars, and 1 molar.
- Each side of the lower jaw includes 3 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, and 1 molar.
- Total: 30 permanent teeth.
Persistent Milk Teeth
Sometimes, milk teeth do not fall out spontaneously, leading to potential issues:
- Interference with permanent teeth: Persistent milk teeth can disrupt proper growth of permanent teeth.
- Tartar buildup: Close proximity of milk and permanent teeth encourages tartar and plaque buildup, increasing dental risks.
To prevent these complications, consulting a veterinarian is essential. Extraction of persistent milk teeth often ensures your cat maintains a healthy, functional set of teeth.
