Cat Teething: Symptoms, What to Do & What NOT to Do

Are you wondering why your cat is acting a little off lately?

Have you noticed some changes in their behavior, like excessive chewing or irritability? 💡

Don't worry!

I've experienced the same teething concerns with my kittens and I know exactly how you feel.

In this blog post, we'll dive into the signs of cat teething and explore effective ways to ease their discomfort together.

Stay tuned!

Signs of a Teething Kitten

Teething can be tough for both kittens and owners.

Here's what to watch out for:

1. Kittens go crazy chewing on everything - toys, furniture, even your favorite sweater.
2. They might drool a lot, so be ready for a wet chin.
3. Take a look in their mouth - if the gums are red and puffy, it's teething time.
4. Brace yourself for some not-so-pleasant kitty breath, thanks to all that chewing.
5. Teething can make eating uncomfortable, so they might have a poor appetite.
6. You might see a bit of blood when they chew on hard stuff - don't freak out, it's normal.
7. Kittens will chomp on anything they can find to soothe the discomfort.
8. Watch out for red and inflamed gums - that could mean infection, so call the vet.
9. If they keep pawing at their mouth, it's a telltale sign of teething pain.
10. Get ready for some crankiness and extra sensitivity from your little furball. 🐾

Teething is just part of growing up for kittens.

Give them appropriate chew toys, keep an eye out for infections, and show them lots of love during this process.

What to Do to Help a Teething Kitten

Teething kittens can be quite a handful, but don't worry, I've got you covered!

Here are some practical ways to help your teething furball:

1. Offer a variety of chew toys specifically designed for teething kittens. Look for ones that have different textures to soothe their gums and keep them entertained.
2. Frozen treats can provide much-needed relief during the teething phase. You can freeze wet food or make homemade cat ice cubes using low-sodium broth.
3. Don't forget about gum massage! Using a soft toothbrush or a clean finger wrapped in gauze, gently rub your kitten's gums to ease discomfort.
4. Providing mental and physical stimulation is essential. Make sure to have plenty of scratching posts, cat trees, and interactive toys to keep them occupied and redirect their chewing behavior.
5. It's important to brush up on your kitten's nutrition. Consider adding wet food to their diet during teething. Its softer texture will be easier on their sensitive gums while still providing necessary nutrients.

Teething is just a temporary phase, and by following these tips, you can ensure that your little feline friend stays happy and healthy throughout this challenging time! 😺

And if you're looking for even more tips on caring for your teething kitten, I've got you covered! In my article, How to Brush a Cats Teeth, I delve into the importance of maintaining your furry friend's oral health.

Discover the proper techniques and tools to ensure their teeth stay clean and strong.

Don't miss out on this valuable guide to keeping your kitten's adorable smile intact!

Teething Toys for Kittens

Teething is a normal thing for kittens, and there are lots of toys out there to help them when they're feeling uncomfortable.

Here's some useful advice on teething toys for your kitten:

1. Get soft rubber or plastic toys: These toys are made to be gentle on their sore gums and give them something good to chew on.
2. Make your own toys: You can easily make homemade teething toys with cloth squares or braided fleece. They're soft, safe, and easy to wash.
3. Try cloth toys and braided ropes: Not only do these toys offer relief for your teething kitten, but they also give their teeth a workout. The texture and resistance make chewing satisfying.
4. Look for toys designed specifically for teething: There are special toys made just for kittens going through the teething process. They're tough and have interesting shapes and textures to engage their senses.
5. Chill the toys: If you want to go the extra mile, try freezing the teething toys before giving them to your kitten. The coldness can soothe their gums and offer temporary relief.

Always keep an eye on your kitten while they play with teething toys, and regularly replace any toys that are worn-out or damaged to keep them safe.

And now, let's talk about the importance of proper dental care and precautions to take during your teething kitten's journey...

What Not to Do When Your Kitten is Teething

When your kitten is teething, there are a few things you should steer clear of.

Just like with human babies, you need to be careful about what you give them.

First off, don't give them any pain medication meant for humans unless the vet gives you the go-ahead.

It can actually do more harm than good for kittens.

Teething is completely natural in kittens, so it's normal for them to nibble on toys or even their siblings.

You might also see a little bit of bleeding in their gums, but that's nothing to worry about.

But if you notice excessive bleeding, it's best to take them to the vet and get it checked out.

If your little furball is experiencing a lot of pain during teething, ensure your home is kitten-proof and seek help from the vet.

That way, they can get the proper care they need.

Chewing on different objects can ease their discomfort, but don't be tempted to give them any human painkillers unless specifically instructed by the vet.

Stick to options that are safe for kittens instead.

Furthermore, taking care of your growing kitten's teeth on a daily basis is crucial.

Brushing their teeth with toothpaste made for cats, providing dental diets and treats, and scheduling regular checkups and cleanings under anesthesia are highly recommended.

Lastly, keep an eye out for baby teeth that don't fall out on their own.

They can cause problems like crowding and misalignment, so you must keep tabs on their development.

And please remember, starting good dental habits early on, like redirecting their chewing to appropriate toys, can have a lasting impact on your kitten's dental health.

When Do Kittens Start Teething?

When do kittens start teething?

Ah, the adorable phase of teething in kittens. Let's talk about when these little furballs start getting their baby teeth.

The initial stage: development of baby teeth

Around 3 to 4 weeks old is when kittens begin growing their first set of teeth. Yes, they start pretty early!

This is when teething begins and those tiny teeth are just starting to show up.

The main event: teething at 12 weeks

Jumping ahead to around 12 weeks or 3 months, that's when the real teething process starts. You might notice some small teeth being shed around this time—this is your kitten saying goodbye to their baby teeth.

Completing the set: adult teeth at six months

By the time your furry friend reaches six weeks of age, all 26 deciduous teeth (those adorable miniatures) should be fully grown. But don't worry, it doesn't end there!

Around three months, your kitten will start growing their complete set of 30 adult teeth, which will be in place by the time they're six or seven months old.

But what if teething is delayed?

Well, here's an important tip for you:

If your little one's teething seems a bit delayed and they haven't grown all their teeth by nine or ten weeks, it's best to reach out to a vet for some expert guidance.

They can give you purrfect advice for your cat's dental health.

But what happens if your teething kitten's adult teeth aren't fully developed by six or seven months?

Could there be a reason for concern?

Let's explore this further...

How Long Does Teething Last in Kittens?

The growth of permanent adult teeth in kittens usually takes several months.

By six or seven months old, their development is generally complete. However, some cats may have fully developed adult teeth as early as nine months old. It varies from cat to cat.

And that wraps up today's article.

Before you leave, can I ask you something? Did my blog post help you out? If it did, it would mean a lot to me if you could share it with your friends and family. You just need to click on any of the social media sharing icons for instant sharing. Thank you so much!

Talk soon,

-Sarah Davis