How Many Teeth Do Cats Have? 30!

You might be surprised to learn that how many teeth a cat has isn't a fixed number. It changes as they grow. Kittens have a different set than adult cats.

Senior cats sometimes lose teeth over time.

Per the American Veterinary Dental College, kittens start with 26 deciduous teeth. Adult cats have 30 permanent teeth. That's a specific formula that serves their biology as obligate carnivores.

Let's walk through each stage.

The Quick Answer: 26 Baby Teeth, 30 Adult Teeth

Adult cats have 30 teeth. Kittens have 26 baby teeth. The adult formula is 12 incisors, 4 canines, 10 premolars, and 4 molars.

As of 2026, these numbers hold across all domestic cat breeds.

Why the Right Answer Depends on Which Cat You're Asking

The number changes because cats go through two distinct dental stages. If you have a kitten, you're looking at a mouth full of temporary teeth. If you have an adult cat, those baby teeth have been replaced by a larger permanent set.

And if you have a senior cat, some teeth may be missing due to age-related dental disease.

This is where most owners get confused. They assume their adult cat has a full set of 30 teeth. But many adult cats have lost one or more teeth without their owners noticing.

Cats are masters at hiding pain. They'll eat just fine with a missing tooth or two.

The decision tree starts with one simple question: how old is your cat? From there, we can determine what tooth count to expect. If you don't know the age, you can look at the teeth themselves.

Worn, discolored, or missing teeth point to an older cat. Clean, sharp, white teeth suggest a younger one.

How a Cat's Teeth Change With Age

Cats follow a predictable timeline for tooth development. Understanding this timeline helps you know what's normal and what's not.

The Kitten Stage: Deciduous Teeth

Kittens are born completely toothless. Their first baby teeth, called deciduous teeth, start coming in around 2 weeks of age. The incisors arrive first.

These are the tiny front teeth used for nibbling and grooming.

By 4 weeks, the canines begin to appear. Those are the long, pointed fangs. The premolars follow shortly after.

By 6 to 8 weeks, a kitten typically has all 26 baby teeth in place.

These teeth are smaller and sharper than adult teeth. They're designed for a milk diet and early weaning. They also serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth that will eventually push them out.

The full set of kitten teeth includes:

• 12 incisors (6 top, 6 bottom)
• 4 canines (2 top, 2 bottom)
• 10 premolars (6 top, 4 bottom)

Kittens have no molars. Those come later with the adult set.

The Adult Stage: Permanent Teeth

The transition from baby teeth to adult teeth starts around 3 to 4 months of age. This is when the permanent teeth begin pushing through the gums. The baby teeth roots dissolve, and the teeth fall out.

Most kittens lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months. You might find tiny teeth on the floor or in their bedding. Some kittens swallow them, which is perfectly normal.

The permanent teeth gradually replace each baby tooth.

By 6 months, most cats have all 30 adult teeth. The full adult set includes:

• 12 incisors (6 top, 6 bottom)
• 4 canines (2 top, 2 bottom)
• 10 premolars (6 top, 4 bottom)
• 4 molars (2 top, 2 bottom)

The molars are the key difference. Kittens don't have them. Adult cats have four.

They sit at the very back of the mouth and are used for crushing and grinding food.

The Senior Stage: What Changes After 7-10 Years

As cats age, their teeth show wear and tear. The enamel thins. The tips of the canines may become rounded.

Tartar buildup becomes more common. And dental disease becomes a real risk.

Periodontal disease affects most cats over the age of 7. It starts with plaque buildup, then progresses to gingivitis. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.

Tooth resorption is another common issue in senior cats. The body starts breaking down the tooth structure, which can cause pain and eventual loss.

If your senior cat has fewer than 30 teeth, that's not unusual. The key is to know what's happening and why. A missing tooth due to dental disease is different from a congenital absence.

Your vet can tell you which is which.

The Dental Formula Explained

The dental formula is a shorthand way to describe how many of each tooth type a cat has. It looks like a fraction, but it's simpler than it seems. The top number represents the upper jaw.

The bottom number represents the lower jaw.

For an adult cat, the dental formula is: I 3/3, C 1/1, P 3/2, M 1/1

Let's decode it piece by piece:

• I stands for incisors. 3/3 means 3 on top and 3 on bottom on each side.
• C stands for canines. 1/1 means 1 on top and 1 on bottom on each side.
• P stands for premolars. 3/2 means 3 on top and 2 on bottom on each side.
• M stands for molars. 1/1 means 1 on top and 1 on bottom on each side.

Multiply each number by 2 for both sides of the mouth. The formula exists for standardization. It helps veterinarians communicate clearly about dental issues.

You don't need to memorize it, but it's useful for understanding exam notes.

The upper jaw has more teeth than the lower jaw. That's normal for cats. It allows the upper teeth to overlap the lower teeth, creating a scissor-like bite.

This bite is essential for their hunting and eating behavior.

How to Check Your Cat's Teeth at Home

You can check your cat's teeth at home without a trip to the vet. It takes patience and a calm approach.

Step 1: Choose the right time. Pick a moment when your cat is relaxed. After a meal or a play session works well. A sleepy cat is more cooperative than an alert one.

Step 2: Get comfortable. Sit with your cat in your lap or on a stable surface. Some cats prefer being on the floor. Let your cat settle before you start.

Step 3: Lift the lip. Gently lift your cat's upper lip on one side. Use your thumb and index finger. You don't need to pull hard.

Just lift enough to see the teeth.

Step 4: Count the upper teeth. Start from the front and work your way back. Incisors are the small front teeth. Canines are the long pointed ones.

Premolars and molars are the flatter teeth in the back.

Step 5: Repeat on the other side. Switch to the other side of the mouth. Count the same way. Make sure you're not missing any teeth.

Step 6: Check the lower jaw. Lower teeth are harder to see. You may need to gently open your cat's mouth. Press on the sides of the jaw to encourage them to open.

Count the bottom teeth the same way.

Step 7: Look for problems. Check for discoloration, broken teeth, or tartar buildup. Look for red or swollen gums. Note any teeth that seem loose or missing.

If your cat resists, don't force it. Some cats never tolerate mouth handling. That's OK.

A veterinary exam is always an option. The goal is to get a baseline count and identify any obvious issues.

Here's a quick reference for what to expect at each stage:

If you find fewer teeth than expected, don't panic. Some cats naturally have fewer teeth due to genetics. Others may have lost teeth from injury or disease.

The important thing is to know what's normal for your cat.

Follow the Decision Tree: What's Your Cat's Situation?

Now that you know the baseline numbers, it's time to find your specific answer. The tooth count depends entirely on your cat's age and health status.

Branch 1: You Have a Kitten 0-8 Weeks Old

If your kitten is under 8 weeks, expect 0 to 26 teeth. The exact count depends on the week. At 2 weeks, you'll see tiny incisors poking through.

At 4 weeks, the canines appear. By 8 weeks, all 26 baby teeth should be in place.

Check your kitten's mouth gently. Use a finger to lift the lip. You should see small, sharp, needle-like teeth.

They look much whiter and sharper than adult teeth. If you see fewer than 26, don't worry. Your kitten may just be on the early side of the timeline.

What if you see a tooth that looks different? A baby tooth that seems larger or darker could be a sign of a problem. It might be a retained baby tooth or an early adult tooth.

In that case, a vet visit is a good idea.

Branch 2: Your Kitten Is 3-6 Months Old

This is the transition period. Your kitten is losing baby teeth and gaining adult teeth. The mouth will have a mix of both.

You might find tiny baby teeth on the floor or in your kitten's bedding.

The adult incisors come in first, around 3 to 4 months. The canines follow at 4 to 5 months. The premolars and molars come last, finishing around 6 months.

During this time, your kitten may chew more than usual. That's normal. It helps the new teeth break through the gums.

Count the teeth carefully. You might see 26 baby teeth and a few adult teeth starting to push through. Or you might see mostly adult teeth with a few baby teeth hanging on.

The total number will be between 26 and 30.

If you see a baby tooth and an adult tooth in the same spot, that's called a retained deciduous tooth. It's common in small breeds. It needs veterinary attention.

The baby tooth should fall out on its own, but sometimes it doesn't.

Branch 3: Your Cat Is Over 1 Year Old

If your cat is over a year old, you should expect 30 teeth. That's the full adult set. But not all cats reach this number.

Some have 28 or 29 due to genetics or dental issues.

Check the back of the mouth. The molars are the most commonly missing teeth. They sit at the very back of the upper and lower jaws.

If you don't see them, your cat might have lost them or never had them.

Look at the canines. Long, sharp, and white means your cat has good dental health. Worn, yellow, or broken canines suggest age or injury.

Missing canines are rare but possible. They're usually the result of trauma or extraction.

If you find fewer than 30 teeth, note where they're missing. A missing incisor is less concerning than a missing canine. Incisors are small and can be lost without much impact.

Canines are essential for grasping food.

Branch 4: You're Not Sure How Old Your Cat Is

If you don't know your cat's age, the teeth can give you clues. Look at the overall condition. Clean, white, sharp teeth suggest a young adult.

Worn, yellow, or missing teeth suggest an older cat.

Check the incisors first. They show the most wear. In young cats, they have a smooth, rounded edge.

In older cats, they're flat and worn down. The canines also show wear. Young canines are sharp.

Older canines are blunt.

Count the teeth. If you find 30, your cat is likely between 6 months and 7 years old. If you find fewer than 30, your cat is probably older or has had dental issues.

A vet can give you a more precise age estimate.

Common Mistakes That Throw Off the Tooth Count

Getting the wrong tooth count is easy. Even experienced owners make mistakes. Here are the most common errors and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Confusing a Retained Baby Tooth for an Adult Tooth

A retained baby tooth looks like a smaller version of the adult tooth. It sits right next to the permanent tooth. If you see two teeth in the same spot, one is a baby tooth.

The baby tooth is smaller and whiter. The adult tooth is larger and slightly yellower.

This is most common with the canines. You'll see a small, sharp baby canine next to a larger, more rounded adult canine. The baby tooth should fall out on its own.

If it doesn't, it can cause problems. The two teeth can crowd each other, leading to misalignment and plaque buildup.

Never try to pull a retained baby tooth at home. The root is still intact. Pulling it can break the root, causing infection.

A vet can remove it safely under anesthesia.

Mistake 2: Missing the Molars in the Back

The molars are the hardest teeth to see. They sit at the very back of the mouth. You need to lift the lip and look far back.

Some cats resist this. They close their mouth or turn their head away.

If you can't see the molars, try a different approach. Gently press on the sides of your cat's mouth. This encourages them to open wider.

Use a flashlight to see into the back. The molars are flat and wide. They look different from the sharper premolars in front of them.

If you still can't see them, don't force it. A vet can check with a dental mirror. Missing molars are common in older cats.

They're often the first teeth to go due to dental disease.

Mistake 3: Assuming No Teeth Means Dental Disease

Not all missing teeth are due to disease. Some cats are born without certain teeth. This is called congenital absence.

It's most common with the premolars. A cat might have 28 instead of 30 teeth from birth.

Other cats lose teeth from injury. A fall or a fight can knock out a tooth. The tooth might be missing without any other signs of dental disease.

The gum heals over, and the cat eats just fine.

If you find a missing tooth, check the surrounding area. Look for redness, swelling, or discharge. These are signs of infection.

If the area looks clean and healthy, the missing tooth is likely a non-issue. Your vet can confirm with an X-ray.

When "Missing" Teeth Are Actually Normal

Some cats naturally have fewer than 30 teeth. This is more common than you might think. Breed plays a role.

Certain breeds are more prone to missing teeth. The Sphynx and the Devon Rex are known for this. Their genetics sometimes skip a tooth or two.

The most common missing teeth are the premolars. Specifically, the first premolar on the lower jaw. Some cats are born without it.

Others have it but it's very small. You might not even notice it's there unless you're looking closely.

Other cats have extra teeth. This is called supernumerary teeth. It's rare but possible.

A cat might have 31 or 32 teeth. This usually doesn't cause problems. But it can lead to crowding and plaque buildup.

If you're not sure whether a missing tooth is normal, ask your vet. They can take an X-ray to see if the tooth is present under the gum. Some teeth are impacted.

They never break through the surface. The tooth is there, but you can't see it.

What Retained Baby Teeth Mean (And When to Worry)

Retained baby teeth are a common issue in kittens. They happen when the baby tooth doesn't fall out on schedule. The permanent tooth pushes up next to it.

You end up with two teeth in the same spot.

This is most common with the canines. You'll see a small, sharp baby canine next to a larger adult canine. The baby tooth is usually on the outside of the mouth.

The adult tooth is on the inside. This creates a double row of teeth.

Retained baby teeth can cause problems. They trap food and plaque. This leads to gingivitis and bad breath.

They can also crowd the permanent teeth. This causes misalignment and uneven wear.

If you see a retained baby tooth, watch it for a few weeks. Most fall out on their own. If the baby tooth is still there after the permanent tooth is fully erupted, it needs attention.

A vet can remove it. The procedure is simple and quick. Your cat will be under anesthesia for just a few minutes.

Don't wait too long. Retained baby teeth can cause permanent damage to the adult teeth. The adult tooth may shift out of position.

This can lead to a bad bite. The cat might have trouble eating or grooming.

The best approach is to have your vet check your kitten's mouth at every visit. They can spot retained baby teeth early. Early removal prevents complications.

Your cat will have a healthier mouth for life.

When to Call the Vet

Some dental issues need professional attention. You can handle routine checks at home. But certain signs demand a veterinary exam.

Signs That Need a Professional Exam

Bad breath is the most common red flag. Not the normal "cat food breath." We're talking about a strong, foul odor. That's a classic sign of periodontal disease.

The bacteria buildup causes inflammation and infection. It can spread to the heart, kidneys, and liver over time.

Bleeding gums are another warning. A little blood during teething is normal. But bleeding in an adult cat is not.

It points to gingivitis or an injury. Red, swollen gums need a vet's look.

Difficulty eating is a major sign. If your cat drops food while eating, something is wrong. So is chewing on one side of the mouth.

Pawing at the mouth or excessive drooling are also red flags. These behaviors suggest pain or discomfort.

Visible tooth damage counts too. Broken, cracked, or discolored teeth need attention. A broken tooth can expose the pulp.

That's extremely painful. It can lead to infection and abscess. Your vet can tell you if the tooth needs extraction or repair.

Loose teeth are never normal in an adult cat. They're a sign of advanced dental disease. Tooth resorption is common in cats.

The body breaks down the tooth structure. It looks like a hole or a pink spot on the tooth. This condition is painful and requires treatment.

The Role of Annual Dental Checkups

Annual dental exams are the standard of care. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends them. Your vet can spot problems you can't see at home.

They use dental probes and X-rays to check below the gum line.

Professional dental cleanings are usually needed every 1 to 2 years. The frequency depends on your cat's breed and dental health. Some cats need them more often.

Others can go longer. Your vet can give you a personalized schedule.

Dental cleanings require anesthesia. That's a concern for many owners. But it's necessary for a thorough cleaning.

The vet can clean below the gum line where disease starts. They can also take X-rays to check for hidden problems.

Anesthesia has risks, especially for older cats. But modern protocols are safer than ever. Your vet will do a pre-anesthetic workup.

They'll check blood work and heart function. The benefits of a proper dental cleaning usually outweigh the risks.

A Quick Guide to Keeping Those 30 Teeth Healthy

Prevention is better than treatment. A few simple habits can keep your cat's teeth healthy for years. Start early, and you'll save your cat from pain and yourself from expensive vet bills.

Daily Brushing Is the Gold Standard

Tooth brushing is the most effective way to prevent dental disease. The Veterinary Oral Health Council recommends daily brushing. It removes plaque before it hardens into tartar.

Plaque starts forming within hours of a meal.

Use a cat-specific toothbrush or a finger brush. Human toothbrushes are too hard. They can damage the gums.

Use veterinary toothpaste too. Human toothpaste contains fluoride and xylitol. Both are toxic to cats.

Start slowly. Let your cat taste the toothpaste first. Then lift the lip and brush a few teeth.

Build up to a full mouth over a week. Most cats tolerate it once they get used to it. The whole process takes about 30 seconds.

Dental Diets and Treats Help

Prescription dental diets can reduce plaque and tartar. They have larger kibble that scrapes the teeth. The kibble is also formulated to reduce plaque formation.

Hills t/d and Royal Canin Dental are common options. They're available through your vet.

Dental treats can help too. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of acceptance. This seal means the product has been tested for efficacy.

Greenies and CET chews are examples. They're not a substitute for brushing. But they can supplement your routine.

Water Additives and Gels

Water additives contain enzymes that break down plaque. You add them to your cat's water bowl. They're easy to use.

But they're less effective than brushing. They work best as a supplement.

Dental gels and sprays work similarly. You apply them to the teeth and gums. They contain enzymes and antibacterial agents.

They're a good option for cats that resist brushing. They're not as effective as brushing. But they're better than nothing.

Regular Professional Cleanings

Professional cleanings are essential for long-term health. Even with perfect home care, some cats need professional cleanings. The vet can remove tartar below the gum line.

They can also check for hidden problems.

The frequency depends on your cat. Some cats need annual cleanings. Others can go 2 to 3 years.

Your vet can recommend a schedule based on your cat's dental health.

FAQ: The Most Common Questions Owners Ask

Can a cat have more than 30 teeth?

Yes, but it's rare. This condition is called supernumerary teeth. Some cats have 31 or 32 teeth.

The extra teeth are usually premolars. They don't always cause problems. But they can lead to crowding and plaque buildup.

Your vet can monitor them during checkups.

What if my cat lost a tooth from an injury?

Contact your vet immediately. A knocked-out tooth can cause pain and infection. The vet can clean the socket and check for damage.

Sometimes the tooth can be saved. But extraction is more common. Your cat will adapt to eating without it.

Do certain breeds have different tooth counts?

No, the standard count is 30 for all domestic breeds. But some breeds are more prone to missing teeth. The Sphynx and Devon Rex are known for this.

The difference is in genetics, not breed standards. Your vet can tell you if a missing tooth is normal.

How do I know if my cat is teething?

Look for chewing behavior. Teething kittens chew on everything. They might drool more than usual.

They may be slightly irritable. You might find tiny baby teeth on the floor. The gums may look red and swollen.

This is normal between 3 and 6 months of age.

Can older cats regrow lost teeth?

No, cats cannot regrow teeth. Once a permanent tooth is lost, it's gone forever. The gum heals over the socket.

The surrounding teeth may shift slightly. Your cat can eat normally with missing teeth. But you should check for underlying dental disease.

How often should I brush my cat's teeth?

Daily brushing is the gold standard. The Veterinary Oral Health Council recommends it. Plaque starts forming within hours.

Daily brushing prevents it from hardening into tartar. If daily brushing isn't possible, aim for at least 3 to 4 times per week.

Real-World Scenarios: What Your Cat's Tooth Count Tells You

Your cat's tooth count is more than a trivia answer. It's a window into their health history. Here are three scenarios that show why the count matters.

Scenario 1: The Adopted Adult Cat with 27 Teeth

A rescue cat arrives with three missing teeth. The shelter record says she's 4 years old. You count 27 teeth.

Two premolars and one incisor are gone.

The vet takes an X-ray. She confirms the incisor socket has healed bone. That suggests an old extraction.

The two missing premolars show no socket at all. They were never there.

Takeaway: A missing tooth doesn't automatically mean current disease. But it does warrant a full dental exam. The surrounding teeth need monitoring.

Scenario 2: The 8-Year-Old Cat with 30 Teeth But Red Gums

You count a full set of 30. But the gums are bright red along the back molars. There's visible tartar on the canines.

Your cat has bad breath.

This is classic periodontal disease. The tooth count is still 30. But the disease is active.

Without treatment, those 30 teeth won't last. The bone supporting them is already weakening.

Takeaway: Tooth count alone is not a health metric. A full set of teeth can hide serious disease. Annual cleanings are essential.

Scenario 3: The Kitten with 26 Baby Teeth at 12 Weeks

Your 3-month-old kitten has all 26 baby teeth. They look healthy. No redness.

No swelling. The adult teeth haven't started pushing through yet.

This is right on schedule. The permanent incisors should appear in the next 2 to 4 weeks. You'll see tiny adult teeth behind the baby incisors.

Takeaway: At 12 weeks, 26 baby teeth is perfect. Don't worry if you don't see adult teeth yet. The transition starts between 12 and 16 weeks.

The Connection Between Dental Health and Overall Health

Dental health doesn't exist in a vacuum. The mouth is connected to the rest of the body. Poor dental health can affect the heart, kidneys, and liver.

The mechanism is simple. Bacteria from dental disease enter the bloodstream. They travel to other organs.

The immune system responds with inflammation. Over time, this can damage vital tissues.

The Journal of Veterinary Dentistry reports that cats with periodontal disease have higher rates of kidney disease. The bacteria colonize the kidney tissue. The inflammation adds to the organ's workload.

For cats already prone to kidney issues, this is a serious risk.

Heart disease is another concern. The bacteria can infect the heart valves. This condition is called endocarditis.

It's rare in cats but serious. Prevention starts with the teeth.

Diabetes management is harder with dental disease. The chronic inflammation makes blood sugar control more difficult. Cats with dental disease may need higher insulin doses.

Treating the dental disease can improve diabetes control.

The takeaway is simple. Keeping those 30 teeth healthy isn't just about fresh breath. It's about your cat's entire body.

How to Prepare Your Cat for a Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional cleanings require anesthesia. That makes some owners nervous. But preparation can reduce the risks.

Pre-Anesthetic Workup

Your vet will run blood work before the procedure. This checks liver and kidney function. It ensures your cat can process the anesthesia safely.

The vet may also run a heart panel. This screens for hidden heart disease.

Fasting is usually required. Your cat should not eat for 8 to 12 hours before the procedure. Water is usually allowed until the morning of the appointment.

Follow your vet's specific instructions.

Day of the Procedure

Arrive on time. Your cat will be examined by the vet. They'll check vital signs and confirm the pre-anesthetic workup is normal.

An IV catheter is placed. This allows for fluids and emergency drugs if needed.

The anesthesia is induced and maintained throughout the cleaning. The vet cleans above and below the gum line. They take dental X-rays.

They check for hidden problems like tooth resorption or abscesses.

Recovery

Your cat will wake up in a warm, quiet area. They'll be monitored until they can swallow and stand. Most cats go home the same day.

They may be sleepy for the rest of the day. They can eat a light meal that evening.

You'll get a report on the findings. The vet will tell you how many teeth were cleaned, if any were extracted, and what follow-up care is needed.

Cost of Veterinary Dental Care

Dental care costs vary widely. The price depends on where you live, the clinic's fees, and what's needed.

Basic Dental Cleaning

A routine cleaning with pre-anesthetic blood work, anesthesia, monitoring, scaling, polishing, and X-rays costs $300 to $700. This assumes no extractions and no complications.

Dental Cleaning with Extractions

If your cat needs extractions, the cost goes up. Simple extractions add $50 to $200 per tooth. Complex extractions can cost $200 to $500 per tooth.

A cat with advanced disease might need 5 to 10 extractions. That adds $500 to $2,000 to the bill.

Full Mouth Extractions

Some cats have severe stomatitis. They need all teeth removed. This surgery costs $1,500 to $3,000.

It's a major procedure. But it's often the best option for cats with chronic oral pain.

Preventive Home Care Costs

A toothbrush and toothpaste kit costs $10 to $20. Dental treats run $15 to $30 per bag. Dental diets cost $50 to $80 per bag.

Water additives cost $15 to $25 per bottle.

Insurance Considerations

Pet insurance often covers dental cleanings. But you need to read the policy. Some plans cover only accident-related dental issues.

Others cover periodontal disease treatment. Preventive cleanings may not be covered. Check before you buy.

When to Count and When to Call: A Final Decision Guide

You have all the information now. Let's simplify it into a decision guide.

Step 1: What is your cat's age?

• Under 2 weeks: Expect 0 teeth. No need to count.
• 2 to 8 weeks: Expect up to 26 baby teeth. Count to confirm normal development.
• 3 to 6 months: Expect 26 to 30 teeth. Mixed set. Watch for retained baby teeth.
• Over 6 months: Expect 30 teeth. Count once for baseline.
• Over 7 years: Expect 30 or fewer. Count annually.

Step 2: Did you find fewer teeth than expected?

• If the missing tooth is an incisor and the gum looks healthy: Likely normal. Monitor.
• If the missing tooth is a canine or molar: Call your vet. These teeth are rarely missing without cause.
• If the gum is red, swollen, or bleeding: Call your vet. Dental disease is likely.
• If your cat is in pain: Call your vet immediately. Don't wait.

Step 3: Did you find extra teeth?

• If your cat is a kitten: Double-check. You might be seeing adult and baby teeth together.
• If your cat is an adult: Call your vet. Supernumerary teeth need evaluation. They can cause crowding.

Step 4: Does your cat have signs of dental disease?

• Bad breath: Schedule a dental cleaning within 3 months.
• Red gums: Schedule a dental cleaning within 1 to 2 months.
• Visible tartar: Schedule a dental cleaning within 3 months.
• Loose teeth: Schedule a dental cleaning within 2 weeks.
• Dropping food or drooling: Call your vet this week.
• Pawing at the mouth: Call your vet today.

Step 5: How is your home care routine?

• Brushing daily: You're doing great. Keep it up.
• Brushing 3 to 4 times per week: Good. Aim for daily.
• Brushing rarely or never: Start today. Use a finger brush and toothpaste.
• Using water additives or treats: Better than nothing. Add brushing when possible.
• No home care at all: Expect professional cleanings every 6 to 12 months.

Final Rule of Thumb

If you're ever unsure, call your vet. That's what they're there for. A quick phone call can save you worry and your cat from pain.

Your cat can't tell you when something hurts. But you can catch problems early. Count the teeth.

Watch the gums. Act on the signs. That's how you keep all 30 teeth healthy for life.