Why Do Cats Lose Their Teeth? Most Common Causes

Do you ever notice your furry friend dropping teeth around the house?

It can be worrisome, but fret not! 😊

I've wondered about it too.

During this intriguing process of cats losing teeth, I want to explore with you whether it's normal or something that requires immediate attention.

Let's dive into the fascinating world of cats and their teeth, ensuring we provide them with optimal care along the way.

STAY with me!

What to Expect During the Tooth Loss Process in Cats

Here's what you need to know about cats losing their teeth:

1. Kittens start getting teeth when they're just a few weeks old.
2. These baby teeth, like incisors and premolars, are important for weaning.
3. They start popping through around 3-4 weeks old.
4. At around 4-7 months, adult cats start growing their permanent teeth.
5. By the time they're one year old, they should have a full set of 30 teeth.
6. If an adult cat loses teeth, it's usually not normal unless there's dental disease involved.
7. Cats normally have all their permanent teeth grown by the time they're 9 months old.
8. Teething in kittens can happen around 12 weeks of age.
9. During this time, they might chew on toys or their siblings.
10. Their sharp milk teeth, which aren't permanent, will be lost by 4 months.

To estimate a kitten's age, keep an eye out for new teeth coming in and old ones falling out, along with other signs of development like open eyes, weight gain, and playfulness.

Don't hesitate to ask your vet for age estimation charts based on teeth. They'll be able to help you out. 🐱

And now I will discuss the importance of dental care routines and how to maintain good oral hygiene for cats...

Importance of Dental Hygiene for Cats

To keep your cat's teeth healthy, daily toothbrushing is an absolute must. Start this at a young age and establish good oral hygiene habits right from the get-go.

If you neglect this, those baby teeth could cause some serious dental issues for your feline friend down the line.

We're talking about tooth position abnormalities, plaque buildup, and abscesses. Not pretty, right? 😺

So, if you notice any of these problems, don't waste any time.

Get those pesky teeth removed pronto by a veterinarian. No questions asked.

Listen up, dental disease is like the boogeyman for cats over 3 years old.

It’s a common issue that affects a crazy amount of cats.

And let me tell ya, it's nothing but bad news. This disease can cause irreversible damage to their tooth-supporting structures, leading to tooth loss.

Enough said, right?

Now, why do cats end up with dental disease in the first place?

Well, genetics play a role for sure.

But guess what else?

The lack of proper oral care.

Yep, it's that simple. Oh, and let's not forget about periodontal disease – it’s no joke either.

As cats age, they become more prone to dental issues.

That's just the way it goes, my friend.

So, even if you think your older cat is doing fine, don't be fooled.

Regular dental check-ups are a must.

Schedule them without hesitation. Scaling and polishing by professionals who specialize in kitty teeth health can save your cat's teeth.

Trust me, those tartar and calculus will be a thing of the past.

Oh, and here's something important:

Even if your cat doesn't have teeth anymore (poor buddy), they still need routine evaluations.

Don't skip out on this.

The experts say so, not just me.

Professional medical advice should always come first. Let's be clear about that.

So, stay informed and take action when needed.

It never hurts to prioritize your feline friend's dental health.

Now, let's delve into some of the common dental problems that cats face and how they can lead to tooth loss...

Common Dental Problems in Cats

Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORLs) cause tooth decay

You know, cats can have this dental problem called Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions, or FORLs for short.

It's pretty common.

Basically, it's when the cells in their body attack their teeth and make them weak and prone to breaking.

Not fun at all!

Unfortunately, there's no way to prevent FORLs, but if your cat gets them, you might need to get their affected teeth removed.

Don't worry though, they can still eat just fine without a few teeth.

Cats are pretty tough little creatures.

Dental disease is rampant among cats

Did you know that about 80% of cats will have some sort of dental issue by the time they're three years old?

Yeah, even our furry friends aren't immune to oral health problems.

The main reason behind tooth loss in cats is this thing called periodontal disease.

It starts with plaque buildup and bacteria along the gum line, which then leads to inflamed gums and eventually really serious periodontal disease. And guess what?

Loose teeth and tooth loss can be part of the package deal.

Not cool!

Tooth resorption and impacted teeth can spell trouble

There's another dental issue that cats have to deal with - tooth resorption.

It's actually a painful process where the hard parts of their teeth start to deteriorate and they end up losing teeth or having missing ones. That can definitely put a dent in their ability to enjoy crunchy treats, poor things.

And then there are impacted teeth, causing even more trouble for our feline friends.

These teeth get stuck or don't fully come out, so it looks like they're missing.

Sometimes, removing these teeth becomes necessary to avoid complications down the road.

So, just to sum it up, when cats have tooth loss, it's often because of gum disease. Plaque buildup leads to loose teeth that eventually fall out.

That's why it's important for you to keep your cat's teeth clean and schedule regular dental check-ups.

Taking care of their pearly whites will make them happy and healthy!

But wait, how can you tell if your cat is experiencing any of these dental problems?

Well, I'm here to help!

Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Loss in Cats

Keep an eye out for these signs and symptoms of tooth loss in your cat:

1. If you notice bleeding gums, don't brush it off - this could mean they have periodontal disease.
2. Bad breath is a red flag too - it might indicate an infection like a nasty abscessed tooth.
3. Swollen or inflamed tissues around their teeth? That could be a sign of gum disease or tooth loss.
4. Is your cat avoiding chewing on one side or steering clear of hard foods altogether? It could be because their teeth hurt.
5. Kittens going through the teething stage may show more biting and chewing behavior as new teeth come in.
6. Excessive drooling, coupled with swollen gums and stinky breath, means teeth discomfort might be the culprit.
7. Constant licking of their mouth or pawing at their face? Tooth loss or pain could be causing them distress.
8. Keep an eye out for that slack-jawed look - it's a surefire sign of severe tooth loss.

If you see any of these signs, get yourself to the vet pronto. 😷

They'll ensure your furry buddy gets the dental care they need.

Now, you might be wondering...

How can I prevent dental diseases and maintain my cat's oral health?

Well, here's the deal...

Scheduling regular veterinary dental cleanings is crucial.

But, that's not all.

In the next section, we'll dive deeper into the importance of proactive dental care for your feline friend and how you can keep their teeth in tip-top shape.

Stay tuned!

What to Do If Your Cat's Teeth Are Loose or Missing

If you notice that your cat has a missing or loose tooth, you need to take action.

First and foremost, schedule regular veterinary dental cleanings to address any existing dental diseases and maintain oral health.

When you see a missing or loose tooth in your cat's mouth, it's a clear indication of dental disease.

This means seeking veterinary care is essential.

An examination by a vet may involve cleaning, X-rays, and a possible referral to a veterinary dentist for further evaluation. That way, you can get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Your veterinarian may recommend a thorough teeth cleaning and extraction of any infected teeth if necessary.

I'm not a doctor (in fact I'm just a blogger), so consult a veterinarian for professional advice on your cat's dental health.

They will have the expertise to provide the best course of action, ensuring that your furry friend's teeth are properly taken care of.

Now, you might be wondering:

How exactly do I acclimate my cat to having their mouth touched and use specialized toothpaste?

Well, I've got the answers for you.

Just keep reading and I'll reveal the secrets to maintaining your cat's oral health:

Tips for Brushing Cats' Teeth

Acclimate your feline friend to mouth touch before introducing tooth brushing, using cat-specific toothpaste.

Maintain proper dental care for your cat by brushing their teeth every day with toothpaste made for them. In addition, it is recommended to have experts perform regular teeth cleanings on your cat, done under anesthesia.

How to Help Cats with Tooth Loss Eat Properly

So, your furry friend is experiencing tooth loss?

Don't worry, they can still enjoy mealtime!

Here's how you can help them:

1. Offer smaller, frequent meals: This ensures cats with tooth loss can consume enough food throughout the day. It prevents them from getting too hungry between meals.
2. Cats without teeth can eat well: Their teeth are mainly used for grabbing and shearing, not chewing or grinding. Their tongue helps move food to the back of their mouth for swallowing.
3. Consider different food options: While canned food is generally recommended, some cats may prefer kibble. You can also mix both to create a chunkier consistency that's easier for them to eat.
4. Remove infected or painful teeth: Doing so improves your cat's happiness and comfort while eating. They'll be able to enjoy their meals without any discomfort.
5. Dental diets and treats: Some cats might benefit from specific dietary options designed to promote oral health. These can help maintain their dental hygiene.
6. Teething kittens: Provide appropriate chew toys to alleviate teething discomfort. Refrigerating them can offer additional relief. Also, consider offering wet food or softened kibble to make it easier for them to eat. Over-the-counter remedies formulated for kittens can also help with their teething woes.

Each cat is unique, so try different approaches to find what works best for your feline friend.

And lastly, for those of you who have teething kittens at home, I have written a helpful guide on how to navigate this precious phase.

Whether you're seeking information or advice to ease their discomfort, I highly recommend checking out my How to Help a Teething Kitten blog post.

It's filled with valuable insights and practical tips that will make both you and your little furball feel at ease.

How to Care for Cats During Tooth Loss

You can take care of your cat during tooth loss by following these 10 steps:

1. Get some suitable chewing toys or treats for teething kittens.
2. Keep an eye on your cat's appetite to make sure they're eating well despite their tooth loss.
3. Watch out for any excessive bleeding in their gums.
4. Pay attention to your cat's weight and make sure they're not losing too much.
5. Look out for any signs of weight loss in your cat.
6. If necessary, don't hesitate to take your cat to the vet.
7. Make sure your cat is drinking enough water to stay hydrated.
8. Stick to a balanced diet for your cat during this time.
9. Offer softer food options that are easier for them to chew.
10. Remember to be patient and understanding with your cat as they go through this process.

Just please bear in mind that tooth loss can be uncomfortable for cats, but with proper care and attention, they'll recover quickly and comfortably. If you have any concerns or questions about your cat's oral health, it's always best to consult your veterinarian.

And that wraps up today's article.

You made it to the end of my blog post! So, I wanted to ask you... Did you enjoy reading it? I really put a ton of effort into creating comprehensive and helpful posts. It takes me a lot of time (which I actually enjoy), but I would truly appreciate it if you could click on any of the social sharing icons to share this post with others. Thank you so much!

Talk soon,

-Sarah Davis