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Kittens go through two phases of teething, during which their baby teeth come in and then fall out, making way for their permanent adult teeth. Understanding this process and being aware of the signs of kitten teething can make this phase easier for both you and your pet.
Teething Timeline
- Baby Teeth Development: Kittens are born without teeth because they rely on their mother’s milk initially. Their first set of teeth emerges in stages:
- 2 to 4 weeks: Incisors appear (12 in total – 6 upper, 6 lower).
- 3 to 4 weeks: Canines start to emerge (4 in total – 2 upper, 2 lower).
- 4 to 6 weeks: Premolars start to appear (5 upper, 4 lower).
- 8 weeks: By this time, a kitten usually has all 26 baby teeth.
- Transition to Adult Teeth: Baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth in the following timeline:
- 3 ½ to 4 months: Baby incisors begin falling out and are replaced by adult incisors.
- 4 to 5 months: Baby canines and premolars start to fall out, while adult teeth begin emerging.
- 5 to 7 months: By around 6 months old, a kitten typically has a full set of 30 adult teeth.
Signs of Teething in Kittens
- Discomfort: Kittens might paw or rub their face, displaying signs of discomfort.
- Difficulty Eating: Chewing hard food may cause pain, leading to reluctance or dropping food.
- Drooling: Similar to human infants, kittens might drool during teething.
- Bad Breath: The characteristic “kitten breath” is associated with teething.
- Chewing Desire: Kittens may want to chew on soft objects to soothe irritated gums.
Managing Teething
- Appropriate Chewing: Provide soft kitten chew toys to redirect their chewing behavior from household objects.
- Frozen Washcloth: A frozen, damp washcloth can soothe teething kittens’ gums.
Diet for Teething Kittens
- Food Transition: While most kittens continue to eat dry food during teething, some might struggle. Switching to wet food can be beneficial, offering better hydration and nutrition.
Tooth Care for Kittens
- Toothbrush Training: Introduce toothbrushing gently during teething using a soft finger brush and cat toothpaste. Avoid causing any pain or discomfort.
Veterinary Check-ups
- Regular Visits: Kittens should see a vet every 3-4 weeks, starting around 6-8 weeks old and continuing until they’re 16-18 weeks old.
- Monitoring Dental Development: Watch for any issues like retained baby teeth that might require veterinary attention.
Understanding and aiding your kitten through the teething process is vital for their dental health and overall well-being. Regular vet check-ups and appropriate care will ensure a healthy transition from baby to adult teeth.
