Cat Teeth: Complete Guide to Kitten & Adult Cat Teeth
Cats go through two sets of teeth during their lifetime. Kittens develop 26 baby teeth, also called deciduous teeth, which are gradually replaced by 30 permanent adult teeth during the first several months of life.
Understanding how cat teeth develop can help you recognize normal kitten teething, understand the difference between baby and adult teeth, and know when a dental change deserves a closer look. This guide covers feline tooth development, anatomy, eruption, and the transition from kitten teeth to a complete adult set.
Cat Teeth at a Glance
Cat teeth change quickly during kittenhood. Here is the basic timeline and tooth count at a glance.
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| How many teeth do kittens have? | 26 baby teeth |
| How many teeth do adult cats have? | 30 permanent teeth |
| Are kittens born with teeth? | Kittens are born without erupted teeth |
| When do kitten teeth appear? | Beginning around 2–4 weeks |
| Do kittens lose baby teeth? | Yes |
| When do adult teeth begin appearing? | Around 3–4 months |
| When are adult teeth generally complete? | Around 6–7 months |
| Do kittens have molars? | No deciduous molars |
| Do adult cats have molars? | Yes, four permanent molars |
These ages are approximate. Individual kittens can develop slightly earlier or later, so tooth eruption is best viewed as a developmental range rather than an exact calendar.
How Many Teeth Do Cats Have?
Adult cats normally have 30 permanent teeth. Kittens have 26 deciduous, or baby, teeth, which are gradually replaced as their permanent teeth erupt.
The difference comes from the molars. Kittens do not have deciduous molars. As the permanent dentition develops, four molars are added to the 26-tooth pattern, bringing the normal adult total to 30 teeth.
How Many Teeth Do Kittens Have?
Kittens have 26 deciduous teeth once their complete set of baby teeth has erupted. These include:
- 12 incisors
- 4 canine teeth
- 10 premolars
- 0 molars
The baby teeth are temporary. They allow kittens to begin biting and eating solid food while the larger permanent teeth develop beneath them.
How Many Teeth Do Adult Cats Have?
A cat with complete permanent dentition normally has 30 adult teeth:
- 12 incisors
- 4 canine teeth
- 10 premolars
- 4 molars
Each type of tooth has a different role. The small incisors at the front help with gripping and grooming, the prominent canine teeth help grasp and tear, and the premolars and molars are adapted largely for cutting and shearing food.
Cat Teeth by Type
| Tooth Type | Kitten Teeth | Adult Teeth | Main Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incisors | 12 | 12 | Gripping and grooming |
| Canines | 4 | 4 | Grasping and tearing |
| Premolars | 10 | 10 | Cutting and shearing |
| Molars | 0 | 4 | Cutting and processing food |
| Total | 26 | 30 |
The change from 26 kitten teeth to 30 adult teeth is therefore not simply a matter of replacing each baby tooth. Adult cats also develop four permanent molars that were not present in the deciduous set.
Graphic: How Many Teeth Do Cats Have? 26 Kitten Teeth vs. 30 Adult Teeth
Cat Teeth Chart by Age
A kitten’s teeth change rapidly during the first several months of life. Kittens are born without erupted teeth, develop a temporary set of 26 deciduous teeth, and then replace those teeth with a permanent adult set as they mature. Most cats ultimately have 30 permanent teeth.
Complete Kitten Teeth Development Chart
| Age | Teeth Developing | What Is Happening | What Owners May Notice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth | No erupted teeth | Teeth are developing beneath the gums, but none are visible yet. | The kitten appears toothless. |
| 2–4 weeks | Deciduous incisors | The tiny front teeth begin erupting. | Small incisors become visible along the front of the mouth. |
| 3–4 weeks | Deciduous canines | The pointed baby canine teeth begin to emerge. | The mouth starts to look noticeably more “toothy.” |
| 4–6 weeks | Deciduous premolars | Baby premolars erupt behind the canines. | Kittens have more teeth available for biting and eating solid foods. |
| 6–8 weeks | Baby dentition | The deciduous set is generally established by this stage. | A kitten may have its full set of 26 baby teeth. |
| 3–4 months | Transition toward permanent teeth | The process of replacing deciduous teeth with permanent teeth begins. | Owners may notice missing baby teeth or increased chewing. |
| 4–5 months | Permanent teeth erupting | Permanent incisors, canines, premolars and molars begin appearing during this broader developmental period. | The mouth may contain a mixture of baby and adult teeth. |
| 5–6 months | Permanent dentition developing | More deciduous teeth are lost as their permanent replacements erupt. | Adult teeth become increasingly obvious and baby teeth become less common. |
| 6–7 months | Permanent dentition | The transition to the permanent set is generally reaching completion. | Most kittens now have their adult dentition of approximately 30 permanent teeth. |
About these ages:
Tooth-eruption ages are estimates, not exact deadlines. Merck’s veterinary eruption data places deciduous incisors at approximately 2–4 weeks, deciduous canines around 3–4 weeks, and deciduous premolars around 5–6 weeks. Permanent feline incisors, canines, premolars and first molars are generally listed within the broader 4–7 month eruption period. Merck specifically notes that eruption data are averages and can vary considerably between individual animals.
A kitten may therefore be slightly ahead of or behind another kitten of the same age without the difference necessarily being abnormal. The sequence of dental development is more useful than expecting every tooth to appear on an exact day.
Graphic: Cat Teeth Chart by Age: Kitten Teeth Development Timeline
Cat Teeth Anatomy
A cat’s mouth contains four types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Each occupies a specific position in the upper or lower jaw and has a different role in grasping, grooming, tearing, and processing food.
Cats are diphyodont, meaning they develop two generations of teeth. The first is a temporary deciduous set, followed by the permanent adult set. Most cats have 26 deciduous teeth and 30 permanent teeth.
Incisors
Incisors are the small teeth at the very front of a cat’s mouth. Cats have 12 incisors in both their deciduous and permanent sets, with six in the upper jaw and six in the lower jaw.
Although they are much smaller than a cat’s canine teeth, incisors are useful for gripping and nibbling. Cats also use these small front teeth during grooming.
Canine Teeth
The four long, pointed teeth near the front of the mouth are the canine teeth, sometimes called cuspids. Cats have two upper canines and two lower canines.
Their shape makes them well suited for grasping, puncturing, and tearing. Because the canines are so prominent, they are also among the easiest teeth for owners to recognize when comparing kitten and adult dentition.
Premolars
Premolars sit behind the canine teeth. A cat normally has 10 premolars in both the complete deciduous and permanent dentition.
Unlike human teeth designed for extensive grinding, feline cheek teeth are adapted largely for cutting and shearing. Feline dental anatomy is closely related to the cat’s meat-eating diet.
An interesting anatomical detail is that cats do not possess every premolar position found in some other mammals. For example, the tooth immediately behind the upper canine is anatomically the second premolar, because the first maxillary premolar was lost during feline evolutionary history.
Molars
Adult cats normally have four molars, one in each quadrant of the mouth. These are permanent teeth located behind the premolars.
Kittens, however, do not have deciduous molars. Molars develop as permanent teeth rather than replacing baby versions of the same teeth. This explains why kittens have 26 teeth while the complete adult dentition contains 30.
| Tooth Type | Kitten | Adult Cat |
|---|---|---|
| Incisors | 12 | 12 |
| Canines | 4 | 4 |
| Premolars | 10 | 10 |
| Molars | 0 | 4 |
| Total | 26 | 30 |
Cat Teeth Diagram
A cat teeth diagram makes it easier to understand where each tooth sits within the mouth. Veterinarians describe teeth according to several characteristics, including whether the tooth is deciduous or permanent, whether it is on the left or right side, whether it belongs to the upper or lower jaw, and its position within the dental arch.
Insert graphic: Adult Cat Teeth Diagram
Upper Jaw Teeth
The upper jaw is called the maxilla, and teeth located there are described as maxillary teeth.
A typical adult cat’s upper jaw contains:
- 6 incisors
- 2 canines
- 6 premolars
- 2 molars
That gives the upper jaw 16 permanent teeth in total.
Lower Jaw Teeth
The lower jaw is the mandible, so its teeth are described as mandibular teeth.
A typical adult cat’s lower jaw contains:
- 6 incisors
- 2 canines
- 4 premolars
- 2 molars
That gives the lower jaw 14 permanent teeth.
Together, the upper and lower jaws account for the normal 30-tooth adult feline dentition.
Cat Dental Formula
A dental formula is a compact anatomical way of recording how many of each type of tooth occurs on one side of the upper and lower jaws. Because the mouth is symmetrical, the numbers are then multiplied by two to calculate the complete dentition.
The letters represent the tooth types:
I = incisor | C = canine | P = premolar | M = molar
For deciduous teeth, a lowercase d may be used to identify the temporary dentition.
Deciduous Cat Dental Formula
2 × (I 3/3, C 1/1, P 3/2) = 26 teeth
This means that on each side of a kitten’s mouth there are:
- 3 upper and 3 lower incisors
- 1 upper and 1 lower canine
- 3 upper and 2 lower premolars
- no deciduous molars
Permanent Cat Dental Formula
2 × (I 3/3, C 1/1, P 3/2, M 1/1) = 30 teeth
The permanent formula adds one upper and one lower molar on each side, producing the adult total of 30 teeth.
Veterinary dentistry can identify teeth even more precisely. The modified Triadan system, for example, assigns individual teeth three-digit numbers according to their quadrant and position. This allows veterinarians to document a specific tooth consistently in dental records, radiographs, and treatment plans rather than simply referring to “a back tooth” or “a canine.”
What Are Cat Teeth Designed to Do?
A cat’s teeth reflect its anatomy as an obligate carnivore. Rather than having broad, flat teeth designed for extensive grinding, cats have sharp teeth that are especially effective at gripping, puncturing, tearing, and cutting food.
The different types of cat teeth work together:
- Incisors are the small teeth at the front of the mouth. Although they are not especially large, cats use them for gripping small pieces of food and for grooming. For example, the incisors can help a cat nibble through fur while removing debris.
- Canine teeth are long, pointed, and deeply rooted. As a result, they are particularly well suited for grasping and puncturing.
- Premolars and molars sit farther back in the mouth. Instead of providing a broad grinding surface, many of these teeth have sharp edges that allow food to be cut and sheared into smaller pieces.
In particular, cats have specialized carnassial teeth that work together like cutting blades. In cats, the upper fourth premolar and lower first molar form the primary carnassial pair. As the jaws close, these teeth pass alongside one another and help slice through food.
Consequently, cats do not chew food in quite the same way humans do. Human molars have relatively broad surfaces that allow us to crush and grind food repeatedly. In contrast, feline cheek teeth are much better adapted for cutting and shearing. A cat may therefore bite food into manageable pieces and swallow them with considerably less grinding.
This specialized arrangement of incisors, prominent canines, and blade-like cheek teeth is one reason feline dentition looks so different from our own.
Kitten Teeth Development
A kitten’s dental development begins before any teeth are visible. Over the first several weeks of life, the deciduous teeth develop and erupt through the gums, eventually forming a complete set of 26 baby teeth.
However, these teeth are only temporary. A second set of permanent teeth develops and eventually replaces them as the kitten matures.
Are Kittens Born With Teeth?
Kittens are born without erupted teeth. In other words, a newborn kitten appears toothless even though the structures that will produce the teeth are already developing.
This makes sense developmentally because newborn kittens initially depend entirely on their mother’s milk. Therefore, they do not yet need the teeth they will later use as they transition toward solid food.
During the following weeks, however, this changes quickly. The deciduous teeth begin breaking through the gums, starting the kitten’s first visible stage of dental development.
When Do Kittens Get Their First Teeth?
A kitten’s first baby teeth generally begin erupting at approximately 2 to 4 weeks of age. The incisors at the front of the mouth are among the first teeth to appear.
Next, the deciduous canine teeth generally emerge at approximately 3 to 4 weeks. Finally, the baby premolars appear farther back in the mouth, generally around 5 to 6 weeks.
As a result, the appearance of a young kitten’s mouth can change dramatically in only a few weeks. A kitten that has no visible teeth at birth soon develops incisors, prominent little canines, and then premolars.
Tooth eruption can also provide veterinarians and experienced caregivers with useful clues when estimating the developmental age of a young kitten, although individual eruption times can vary.
When Do Kittens Have All 26 Baby Teeth?
By approximately 6 to 8 weeks of age, kittens generally have their complete set of 26 deciduous teeth.
That temporary set consists of:
12 incisors + 4 canines + 10 premolars = 26 baby teeth
Notably, there are no deciduous molars. Molars appear later as part of the permanent dentition, which is why an adult cat has four more teeth than a kitten.
The completed baby dentition does not remain in place for long. Within the next few months, permanent teeth begin developing and replacing the deciduous teeth. Therefore, a kitten can progress from having no erupted teeth at birth to 26 baby teeth within roughly two months, and then begin transitioning toward its 30 permanent adult teeth only a few months later.
Kitten Teeth Eruption Chart
Kittens develop two sets of teeth in a relatively short period. First, the deciduous, or baby, teeth erupt during the first weeks of life. Then, beginning a few months later, those temporary teeth are replaced by the permanent adult dentition.
Kitten Baby and Permanent Teeth Eruption Timeline
| Tooth Type | Baby Teeth Erupt | Permanent Teeth Erupt |
|---|---|---|
| Incisors | About 2–4 weeks | About 3–4 months |
| Canines | About 3–4 weeks | About 4–5 months |
| Premolars | About 5–6 weeks | About 4–6 months |
| Molars | None | About 4–6 months |
These ages should be treated as developmental ranges rather than exact deadlines. Merck Veterinary Manual reports that deciduous incisors begin erupting at approximately 2 to 4 weeks, deciduous premolars at approximately 5 to 6 weeks, and permanent feline teeth generally appear during the following months. Cornell similarly notes that the complete set of 26 deciduous teeth is generally present by about six weeks and is replaced by 30 permanent teeth by approximately six months.
Insert graphic: Kitten Teeth Eruption Chart
Baby Cat Teeth vs Adult Cat Teeth
Baby and adult cat teeth perform many of the same basic functions, but they are not identical. Kitten baby teeth are smaller and temporary, whereas the permanent teeth are larger, more numerous, and intended to remain throughout adulthood.
The most obvious numerical difference is that kittens have 26 deciduous teeth, while adult cats normally have 30 permanent teeth.
| Feature | Baby Cat Teeth | Adult Cat Teeth |
|---|---|---|
| Number | 26 | 30 |
| Type | Deciduous, temporary teeth | Permanent teeth |
| Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Incisors | 12 | 12 |
| Canines | 4 | 4 |
| Premolars | 10 | 10 |
| Molars | 0 | 4 |
| Permanent? | No | Yes |
Because a kitten’s mouth and jaws are still growing, the smaller deciduous teeth are suited to this early stage of development. As the jaws lengthen, larger permanent teeth erupt and replace the temporary set.
Insert graphic: Kitten vs Adult Cat Teeth
Why Do Adult Cats Have More Teeth Than Kittens?
Adult cats have four more teeth because kittens do not have deciduous molars.
Instead, permanent molars develop later without replacing baby versions of those teeth. An adult cat normally has one molar in each quadrant of the mouth, for a total of four molars.
Therefore:
26 kitten teeth + 4 permanent molars = 30 adult teeth
This is also why the transition from kitten to adult dentition involves more than simply replacing one baby tooth with one adult tooth.
Do Cats Lose Baby Teeth?
Yes. Kittens normally lose their deciduous teeth as the permanent teeth develop and erupt. This is a normal part of kitten development and usually occurs over several months.
The process is known as exfoliation. As a permanent replacement tooth develops, changes around the root of the corresponding deciduous tooth eventually allow the baby tooth to loosen and fall out. Under normal development, the deciduous tooth should be lost as its permanent successor erupts.
When Do Kittens Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Kittens generally begin transitioning from baby teeth to permanent teeth at approximately 3 to 4 months of age. From there, tooth replacement continues rapidly through the next several months.
By approximately 6 months, Cornell reports that the 26 deciduous teeth have generally fallen out and been replaced by the permanent set of 30 teeth. However, individual timing can vary, and Merck places the broader period of permanent tooth eruption at approximately 4 to 7 months.
Therefore, seeing a mixture of baby and permanent teeth during the middle months of kittenhood can be completely normal.
Which Kitten Teeth Fall Out First?
The incisors at the front of the mouth are generally among the first teeth involved in the transition to permanent dentition. The canine and premolar teeth follow as the permanent set develops.
However, owners rarely need to track every individual tooth. More importantly, the baby teeth should give way as their permanent successors erupt. If a permanent tooth is coming in while the corresponding baby tooth remains firmly in place, the kitten may have a persistent deciduous tooth.
Where Do Kitten Baby Teeth Go?
One of the most common surprises for kitten owners is that they may never actually see most of the teeth their kitten loses.
Baby cat teeth are extremely small. As a result, a shed tooth can easily disappear into bedding, carpeting, toys, or other areas of the home without being noticed.
Consequently, the absence of little teeth around the house does not mean your kitten failed to lose them.
Do Kittens Swallow Their Baby Teeth?
A kitten may swallow a tiny baby tooth after it comes loose, particularly if the tooth is shed while the kitten is eating or grooming. In many cases, the owner never knows exactly where the tooth went.
Therefore, you should not expect to collect all 26 baby teeth as your kitten goes through teething. Most owners find very few, if any.
Is It Normal to Find a Kitten Tooth?
Yes. Finding a tiny kitten tooth during the normal teething period can be completely normal.
You may find one on the floor, in bedding, or near something your kitten has been chewing. At the same time, you may notice a small gap where a baby tooth was located before the permanent tooth erupts.
However, there is an important difference between a baby tooth falling out normally and a baby tooth remaining in place after its permanent replacement begins to erupt. Persistent deciduous teeth can interfere with the position of permanent teeth and contribute to crowding, so they should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Kitten Teething Timeline
Kitten teething happens quickly. Within just a few months, a kitten transitions from a complete set of 26 baby teeth to approximately 30 permanent adult teeth. Although the exact timing varies between kittens, most of this change takes place between about 3 and 7 months of age.
2–3 Months: Baby Teeth Are in Place
By this stage, most kittens have their deciduous teeth. These 26 small, sharp teeth allow kittens to bite, grasp food, and begin eating a more mature diet.
Meanwhile, the permanent teeth are developing beneath the gums. Owners may not see much dental change yet, but an important transition is already underway.
3–4 Months: Permanent Teeth Begin to Erupt
At approximately 3 to 4 months, the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth becomes more noticeable. The permanent incisors are among the first adult teeth to begin replacing their deciduous counterparts.
As a result, you may notice small gaps along the front of the mouth or see adult teeth beginning to emerge.
4–5 Months: Active Tooth Replacement
Between approximately 4 and 5 months, many kittens are in the most noticeable stage of teething and tooth replacement.
Baby teeth continue to loosen and fall out while permanent incisors, canines, premolars, and molars develop. Consequently, a kitten’s mouth may temporarily contain a mixture of deciduous and permanent teeth.
Chewing and mouthing may also become more noticeable during this period.
5–6 Months: Permanent Dentition Fills In
By 5 to 6 months, many of the permanent teeth have erupted or are actively emerging.
The larger adult canine teeth become particularly easy to recognize. Permanent premolars and molars also continue to develop toward the back of the mouth.
At this stage, relatively few baby teeth should remain as the kitten approaches complete permanent dentition.
6–7 Months: Adult Teeth Are Generally Complete
By approximately 6 to 7 months, most kittens have completed the transition to their permanent teeth.
A cat with complete adult dentition normally has 30 teeth: 12 incisors, 4 canines, 10 premolars, and 4 molars.
However, eruption ages are averages rather than exact deadlines. Therefore, a veterinarian should evaluate the mouth if a baby tooth remains alongside its permanent replacement or if dental development appears abnormal.
Signs Your Kitten Is Teething
Teething can be surprisingly easy to miss. Some kittens show obvious changes in chewing behavior, while others transition from baby to adult teeth with few noticeable signs.
Common signs of kitten teething can include:
- More chewing: Your kitten may become more interested in chewing as the permanent teeth erupt.
- Increased mouthing: Some kittens use their mouths more frequently during play and exploration.
- Sensitive gums: The gums may be temporarily tender as baby teeth loosen and permanent teeth emerge.
- Mild drooling: A small increase in saliva can occur during teething.
- Temporary eating changes: Gum sensitivity may occasionally make a kitten approach food differently for a short period.
- Missing teeth: Small gaps can appear after a deciduous tooth falls out and before its permanent replacement is fully visible.
- Finding a shed tooth: Occasionally, owners find a tiny baby tooth in bedding, on the floor, or near an area where the kitten was playing.
What Is Normal and When Should You Call Your Veterinarian?
Mild chewing, occasional gum sensitivity, and losing baby teeth are generally expected during normal kitten development. Likewise, finding a small shed tooth is usually not a cause for concern.
However, significant pain, persistent bleeding, marked swelling, a strong or unusual mouth odor, refusal to eat, difficulty eating, excessive drooling, or obvious abnormalities in tooth position deserve veterinary attention.
You should also have your veterinarian examine a kitten that develops a permanent tooth while the corresponding baby tooth remains in place. These retained deciduous teeth can interfere with normal positioning of the permanent teeth.
For safe chewing options specifically designed for this developmental stage, see our Kitten Teething Toys Guide.
When Do Kittens Get Their Adult Teeth?
Kittens generally begin getting their permanent adult teeth at around 3 to 4 months of age. From there, the baby teeth are gradually replaced as permanent incisors, canines, premolars, and molars erupt.
By approximately 6 to 7 months, most kittens have their complete adult dentition of 30 permanent teeth. However, eruption timing can vary somewhat between individual kittens.
When Do Permanent Incisors Come In?
The permanent incisors are among the first adult teeth to appear. They generally begin erupting at approximately 3 to 4 months of age.
These are the small teeth located at the very front of the upper and lower jaws. As they develop, the corresponding baby incisors loosen and are shed.
Because this transition happens early, the incisors can provide useful clues when estimating the developmental age of a young kitten.
When Do Permanent Canines Come In?
The prominent permanent canine teeth generally erupt at approximately 4 to 5 months of age.
During this transition, an owner may occasionally notice what looks like two canine teeth occupying the same area. This happens when the permanent canine begins erupting before the deciduous canine has fallen out.
Usually, the baby tooth is shed as the permanent tooth develops. However, if both remain in place, a veterinarian should check for a retained deciduous canine.
When Do Permanent Premolars Come In?
Permanent premolars generally erupt between approximately 4 and 6 months of age.
Cats have 10 permanent premolars in total, with six in the upper jaw and four in the lower jaw. These sharp cheek teeth are primarily adapted for cutting and shearing rather than the extensive grinding performed by human molars.
When Do Cat Molars Come In?
Cat molars generally erupt at approximately 4 to 6 months of age.
Unlike the incisors, canines, and premolars, the permanent molars do not replace baby molars. Kittens have no deciduous molars.
Instead, four new permanent molars develop, one in each quadrant of the mouth. Their appearance is what increases the total tooth count from 26 kitten teeth to 30 adult teeth.
When Do Cats Have All 30 Permanent Teeth?
Most cats have their complete set of 30 permanent teeth by approximately 6 to 7 months of age.
At that point, normal adult dentition consists of:
12 incisors + 4 canines + 10 premolars + 4 molars = 30 permanent teeth
Merck Veterinary Manual places permanent tooth eruption broadly within the first several months of kittenhood and notes that published eruption ages are averages rather than exact deadlines. Individual kittens may therefore develop somewhat earlier or later. (merckvetmanual.com)
How to Tell a Kitten’s Age by Its Teeth
A kitten’s teeth can provide useful clues about approximate developmental age, particularly during the first six months of life. Because deciduous and permanent teeth tend to erupt in a predictable sequence, veterinarians and experienced caregivers can examine which teeth are present to help estimate a young kitten’s age.
Kitten Age by Teeth Chart
| Teeth Present | Approximate Developmental Age |
|---|---|
| No erupted teeth | Birth to approximately 2 weeks |
| Baby incisors emerging | Approximately 2–4 weeks |
| Baby canines emerging | Approximately 3–4 weeks |
| Baby premolars emerging | Approximately 4–6 weeks |
| Complete set of 26 baby teeth | Approximately 6–8 weeks |
| Permanent incisors emerging | Approximately 3–4 months |
| Mixed baby and permanent teeth | Approximately 4–6 months |
| 30 permanent teeth | Generally by approximately 6–7 months |
The pattern of tooth eruption is more useful than looking at a single tooth. For example, a kitten with tiny baby incisors and emerging canines is at a very different developmental stage from one that already has permanent incisors and is replacing its canine teeth.
However, a cat’s teeth should not be treated as an exact birthday calculator. Tooth eruption varies between individuals, and developmental ranges overlap. Therefore, teeth are best used alongside other indicators of kitten development rather than as a precise measurement of chronological age.
How Accurate Is Estimating a Kitten’s Age by Teeth?
Dental eruption is generally much more informative in young kittens than it is once permanent dentition is complete.
During early kittenhood, major dental milestones occur within relatively short periods. A toothless newborn, a kitten developing baby canines, and a kitten replacing deciduous teeth with permanent teeth represent clearly different developmental stages.
Once a cat has all 30 permanent teeth, however, that predictable eruption sequence is finished. From that point forward, factors such as dental care, plaque and calculus accumulation, disease, diet, previous professional cleanings, tooth resorption, trauma, and individual variation can all change the appearance of the mouth.
For that reason, teeth can help estimate the developmental age of a kitten, but they cannot reliably reveal the exact chronological age of an adult cat.
Can You Tell an Adult Cat’s Age by Its Teeth?
A cat’s teeth can provide useful clues about age during kittenhood, but you cannot reliably determine an adult cat’s exact age from its teeth alone. Once all 30 permanent teeth have erupted, the predictable dental-development timeline is largely complete.
You may see charts online that assign a specific age based on tooth color, tartar, or wear. For example, a chart might suggest that white teeth indicate a one-year-old cat while heavier tartar indicates a much older cat. In reality, feline dental appearance is not that predictable.
Several factors can make the teeth of two cats the same age look very different:
- Individual variation: Cats naturally differ in how quickly plaque, calculus, and dental changes develop.
- Oral care: Regular home dental care can significantly affect the appearance of the teeth.
- Periodontal disease: Gingivitis and periodontal disease can alter the gums, supporting structures, and appearance of the teeth.
- Professional dental treatment: A cat that recently received a professional dental cleaning may have much cleaner teeth than another cat of the same age.
- Tooth resorption: This common feline dental condition can damage or destroy teeth and is not a reliable indicator of chronological age.
- Diet: Diet and chewing habits may influence plaque accumulation and dental appearance.
- Trauma: Broken, damaged, or missing teeth may result from injury rather than age.
- Missing teeth: A cat may have lost teeth because of dental disease or may have had them professionally extracted.
Cornell notes that dental disease becomes increasingly common as cats age, but the presence or severity of dental disease does not provide an exact birthday. Therefore, tartar accumulation, tooth discoloration, and missing teeth should be viewed as indicators of dental condition, not a precise measurement of age. (vet.cornell.edu)
For broader information about feline age, developmental stages, and age equivalents, see our Cat Years to Human Years guide.
Retained Baby Teeth in Kittens
Most kitten teeth fall out naturally as the permanent teeth erupt. Occasionally, however, a baby tooth remains in place when its permanent replacement begins to emerge. This is known as a retained or persistent deciduous tooth.
What Is a Retained Deciduous Tooth?
A retained deciduous tooth is a baby tooth that remains in the mouth after the permanent tooth intended to replace it has started erupting.
Normally, changes associated with the developing permanent tooth cause the root of the deciduous tooth to resorb, allowing the baby tooth to loosen and fall out. When this process does not occur normally, both teeth may temporarily occupy the same area. (merckvetmanual.com)
Why Does My Kitten Have Two Canine Teeth?
If your kitten appears to have two canine teeth next to each other, you may be seeing a permanent canine erupting alongside a deciduous canine that has not yet fallen out.
This can be particularly easy to notice because the canine teeth are large and prominent. During normal tooth replacement, there may be a brief transition as the permanent tooth emerges. However, the baby tooth should not remain indefinitely once its permanent replacement is present.
Why Retained Baby Teeth Can Cause Problems
Two teeth occupying an area intended for one can create crowding and interfere with the normal position of the permanent tooth.
Additionally, the narrow space between the retained baby tooth and permanent tooth can trap food and debris. Over time, this may contribute to plaque accumulation and periodontal problems.
More importantly, a retained deciduous tooth can influence how the permanent tooth erupts. Merck notes that persistent deciduous teeth may force permanent teeth into abnormal positions, potentially contributing to malocclusion. (merckvetmanual.com)
When Should a Veterinarian Check It?
If a permanent tooth is clearly erupting while the corresponding baby tooth remains firmly in place, have your veterinarian examine the kitten’s mouth.
Veterinary evaluation is especially important if:
- two teeth remain crowded together
- the permanent tooth appears to be erupting at an abnormal angle
- the baby tooth remains after the permanent tooth has substantially erupted
- the gums around the teeth appear inflamed
- your kitten appears uncomfortable when eating or using its mouth
A veterinarian can determine whether the deciduous tooth is likely to fall out naturally or whether treatment is appropriate.
Insert graphic: Retained Baby Canine in Kittens
What Should Healthy Cat Teeth Look Like?
Healthy cat teeth should generally appear intact and functional, without obvious fractures, heavy deposits, or visible damage. However, owners should not rely on appearance alone to determine whether a cat’s mouth is healthy.
Many dental problems occur below the gumline or are difficult to identify without a veterinary oral examination. Therefore, checking your cat’s mouth at home is useful for noticing changes, but it does not replace professional dental evaluation.
What Healthy Cat Gums Look Like
Healthy gums are generally firm and closely fitted around the teeth, without obvious swelling, bleeding, or marked inflammation.
Normal pigmentation can vary considerably between cats. Some cats naturally have darker pigment on their gums or inside the mouth, so gum color should be interpreted in the context of what is normal for that individual cat.
More useful than looking for one “perfect” color is noticing changes from your cat’s normal mouth.
Changes Worth Showing Your Veterinarian
Contact your veterinarian if you notice changes such as:
- persistent bad breath
- red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- broken or damaged teeth
- loose adult teeth
- unusual discoloration of a tooth
- excessive drooling
- pawing at the mouth
- dropping food while eating
- chewing predominantly on one side
- difficulty eating
- reduced interest in food
- visible swelling around the mouth or face
Cats can continue eating despite significant oral discomfort, so normal appetite alone does not necessarily mean the teeth and gums are healthy. Cornell identifies gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth resorption among the major dental conditions affecting cats. (vet.cornell.edu)
For prevention, brushing, plaque control, and professional dental care, continue to our Cat Teeth Cleaning Guide.
Do Cats Lose Teeth as They Get Older?
Adult cats can lose teeth, but losing permanent teeth should not be considered a normal part of aging. Once a cat’s permanent teeth have developed, those teeth are not naturally replaced.
Instead, tooth loss in an adult or senior cat can be associated with problems such as periodontal disease, tooth resorption, trauma, fractured teeth, or other oral disease. In some cases, a veterinarian may also recommend extracting a damaged or painful tooth as part of treatment.
Tooth resorption is particularly important in cats. It occurs when the structure of a tooth begins to break down and can eventually result in significant damage or loss of the affected tooth. Cornell describes tooth resorption as a common and potentially painful feline dental condition. (vet.cornell.edu)
Therefore, a missing or loose permanent tooth should not simply be attributed to your cat “getting old.” A veterinarian can determine why the tooth was lost and whether other teeth are affected.
For a deeper look at periodontal disease, tooth resorption, gingivitis, and other conditions that affect feline teeth, see our Cat Dental Disease Guide.
Common Cat Teeth Questions
Here are some of the most important facts about kitten and adult cat teeth in one quick reference table.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How many teeth does a cat have? | An adult cat normally has 30 permanent teeth. |
| How many teeth does a kitten have? | A kitten has 26 baby, or deciduous, teeth once the full set has erupted. |
| Do cats have canine teeth? | Yes. Cats have four canine teeth, two upper and two lower. |
| Do cats have incisors? | Yes. Cats have 12 incisors at the front of the mouth. |
| Do cats have premolars? | Yes. Cats normally have 10 premolars. |
| Do cats have molars? | Yes. Adult cats normally have four permanent molars. |
| Do kittens have molars? | No. There are no deciduous molars in the kitten dental formula. |
| Do kittens lose their teeth? | Yes. Baby teeth are shed as permanent teeth develop and erupt. |
| Do adult cat teeth grow back? | No. Once a permanent tooth is lost, another tooth does not grow in to replace it. |
| Can cats live with missing teeth? | Often, yes. How a cat is affected depends on why the teeth are missing and the health of the remaining mouth. |
The difference between 26 kitten teeth and 30 adult cat teeth comes from the four permanent molars. Unlike the other major tooth types, these molars do not replace baby teeth. They develop as new permanent teeth as the kitten matures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Teeth
How many teeth do cats have?
Adult cats normally have 30 permanent teeth. These include 12 incisors, four canine teeth, 10 premolars, and four molars. Cats do not begin life with this complete adult set. Instead, kittens first develop 26 temporary baby teeth, which are gradually replaced as their permanent teeth erupt.
How many teeth do kittens have?
Kittens have 26 deciduous teeth, also called baby or milk teeth, once their first set is complete. These include 12 incisors, four canines, and 10 premolars. Unlike adult cats, kittens do not have molars. The four permanent molars develop later, helping bring the adult tooth count to 30.
What are the four types of cat teeth?
The four types of adult cat teeth are incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Incisors are the small front teeth used partly for gripping and grooming. Canines are long, pointed teeth suited for grasping and puncturing. Premolars and molars sit farther back and are primarily adapted for cutting and shearing food.
Are kittens born with teeth?
Kittens are born without erupted teeth, so a newborn kitten appears toothless. However, dental development is already taking place beneath the gums. The first deciduous teeth generally begin erupting within the next few weeks, starting a rapid developmental period that eventually produces 26 baby teeth and, later, 30 permanent adult teeth.
When do kittens get teeth?
A kitten’s first baby teeth generally begin appearing at approximately 2 to 4 weeks of age. Incisors are among the first to erupt, followed by the canine teeth and then the premolars. By roughly 6 to 8 weeks, most kittens have developed their complete set of 26 deciduous teeth.
Do cats lose their baby teeth?
Yes. Kittens normally lose their baby teeth as their permanent adult teeth develop and erupt. The deciduous teeth are temporary and should give way to their permanent replacements during kittenhood. Most owners never find every shed tooth because these tiny teeth can easily be lost or swallowed without being noticed.
When do kittens lose their teeth?
Kittens generally begin losing their baby teeth at approximately 3 to 4 months of age, as permanent teeth start replacing them. The process continues over the following months. By approximately 6 to 7 months, most kittens have completed the transition from 26 deciduous teeth to their permanent adult dentition.
Do kittens swallow their baby teeth?
Yes, kittens may swallow some of their baby teeth after they loosen and fall out. This can happen while eating, grooming, or playing, and owners often never notice. Baby kitten teeth are extremely small, so finding only one or two, or never finding any at all, is common during normal teething.
When do kittens get adult teeth?
Permanent teeth generally begin appearing at approximately 3 to 4 months of age. The incisors are among the first permanent teeth to erupt, followed by canines, premolars, and molars during the following months. By around 6 to 7 months, most kittens have developed their complete set of 30 adult teeth.
When do kittens stop teething?
Most kittens are largely finished teething by approximately 6 to 7 months of age, when the permanent dentition is generally complete. However, eruption timing varies between individuals. If a baby tooth remains beside an erupted permanent tooth, or your kitten shows significant pain, swelling, bleeding, or difficulty eating, have your veterinarian examine the mouth.
Do cats have molars?
Yes. Adult cats normally have four permanent molars, with one located in each quadrant of the mouth. However, kittens do not have deciduous molars. Instead, these four teeth appear for the first time as part of the permanent dentition, which helps explain why adults have 30 teeth while kittens have 26.
Why are cat teeth so sharp?
Cat teeth reflect the anatomy of an obligate carnivore. Their long canines are adapted for grasping and puncturing, while sharp premolars and molars help cut and shear food. Cats also have specialized carnassial teeth that function like cutting blades. Consequently, feline teeth are much less specialized for grinding than human teeth.
Why does my kitten have two canine teeth?
You may be seeing a permanent canine erupting beside a baby canine that has not yet fallen out. Sometimes this is temporary during normal tooth replacement. However, if the deciduous canine remains after the permanent tooth has erupted, it may be a retained deciduous tooth and should be evaluated by your veterinarian.
Can you tell how old a kitten is by its teeth?
A kitten’s teeth can help estimate its developmental age, especially during the first six months. Baby incisors, canines, and premolars erupt in a relatively predictable sequence, followed by permanent tooth eruption. However, these are developmental ranges rather than exact dates, so dental development should not be used to assign an exact birthday.
Can you tell an adult cat’s age from its teeth?
Not precisely. Once a cat has its complete permanent dentition, tooth appearance becomes a much less reliable indicator of chronological age. Tartar, periodontal disease, tooth resorption, previous dental cleanings, diet, trauma, missing teeth, and individual variation can all affect how an adult cat’s teeth look regardless of age.
Do adult cats lose teeth?
Adult cats can lose permanent teeth, but tooth loss should not simply be considered a normal consequence of aging. Periodontal disease, tooth resorption, trauma, fractures, and other oral conditions can result in missing teeth. A loose or newly missing permanent tooth warrants veterinary evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
Do cat teeth grow back?
Baby teeth are naturally replaced by permanent teeth during kittenhood, but permanent cat teeth do not grow back after they are lost or extracted. Therefore, damage or loss of an adult tooth is different from normal kitten teething. Fortunately, many cats adapt very well to missing teeth when underlying dental problems are appropriately treated.
How many canine teeth do cats have?
Cats normally have four canine teeth, consisting of two upper canines and two lower canines. These are the long, pointed teeth located beside the incisors. Their shape makes them particularly effective for grasping and puncturing. Kittens also have four deciduous canines, which are later replaced by larger permanent canine teeth.
How many incisors do cats have?
Cats normally have 12 incisors, with six in the upper jaw and six in the lower jaw. These are the small teeth positioned between the canine teeth at the very front of the mouth. Cats use their incisors for gripping and nibbling, and the teeth also play a useful role during grooming.
What age do cats have all 30 teeth?
Most cats have their complete set of 30 permanent teeth by approximately 6 to 7 months of age. By this stage, the 26 deciduous teeth have normally been shed and replaced, while four permanent molars have also developed. Because eruption timing varies, some kittens may complete this transition slightly earlier or later.
Related Cat Health & Development Guides
Continue exploring our cat health and development resources:
- Cat Years to Human Years → Convert your cat’s age and understand feline life stages.
- Kitten Growth Chart → Follow kitten growth and physical development from birth to adulthood.
- Cat Weight by Breed → Compare typical adult weight and size across cat breeds.
- Cat Lifespan by Breed → Explore average lifespan and longevity differences between breeds.
- Kitten Deworming Schedule → Learn when kittens are typically dewormed and why parasite control matters.
- Cat Teeth Cleaning → Learn about at-home dental care, brushing, and professional veterinary cleanings.
Final Thoughts
A cat’s teeth tell an important story about development. Kittens progress from no erupted teeth at birth to 26 baby teeth and eventually 30 permanent adult teeth, with most of that transformation occurring during the first six to seven months of life.
Understanding normal cat teeth development makes it easier to recognize teething, follow a kitten’s developmental stage, and notice changes that deserve veterinary attention. Use the charts in this guide as reference points, while remembering that eruption timing can vary between individual kittens.
Sources & Veterinary References
This guide was developed using veterinary references on feline dental development, tooth anatomy, eruption, oral health, and dental disease. Tooth-eruption ages are approximate developmental ranges and may vary between individual kittens.
Merck Veterinary Manual
- Dental Development of Cats
Veterinary reference for deciduous and permanent tooth counts, kitten tooth eruption, and the transition from baby to adult teeth. Merck lists 26 deciduous teeth and 30 permanent teeth and provides eruption ranges used throughout our charts. - Dentition and Dental Nomenclature of Animals
Peer-reviewed veterinary reference for feline dental anatomy, dental formulas, tooth terminology, and the relationship between tooth structure and diet. The professional reference was fully reviewed and updated in July 2026. - Developmental Abnormalities of the Mouth and Dentition in Small Animals
Used as a veterinary reference for normal tooth replacement, persistent deciduous teeth, abnormal eruption, and malocclusion.
Cornell Feline Health Center
- Feline Dental Disease
Cornell’s overview of gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth resorption, dental examinations, and common feline oral disease. - Tooth Resorption in Cats
Reference for feline tooth resorption, including how the condition damages tooth structure and why missing or damaged adult teeth should not automatically be attributed to normal aging.
American Veterinary Dental College
The American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) provides specialist veterinary dentistry standards and terminology. AVDC dental nomenclature is also referenced within the AAHA Dental Care Guidelines as a source for standardized veterinary dental anatomy and terminology.
AAHA & AAFP Veterinary Guidelines
- 2019 AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats
Peer-reviewed clinical guidelines covering oral examinations, dental anatomy and pathology, periodontal disease, prevention, professional dental procedures, and veterinary dental care. - 2021 AAHA/AAFP Feline Life Stage Guidelines: Dental Care
Cat-specific guidance emphasizing dental evaluation beginning during kitten wellness visits, including examination for dental eruption problems, retained deciduous teeth, unerupted teeth, and crowding.
Veterinary Literature
Where more detailed dental anatomy and terminology are needed, this guide also follows veterinary dentistry literature referenced within the AAHA guidelines, including works on small-animal dental anatomy, feline oral radiography, periodontal health, and veterinary dental nomenclature. AAHA provides the supporting scientific and clinical references behind its dental recommendations.
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