AIVetTree · Cat Oral Health Guide
Kitten Teeth: When Baby Teeth Fall Out
Kittens develop 26 baby teeth, which are replaced over about 3–6 months by 30 permanent teeth. This tooth-replacement stage is normal, but a baby tooth that remains beside a permanent tooth can cause problems and should be monitored.
Dental development timeline
| Approximate age | What happens |
|---|---|
| About 2–6 weeks old | All 26 baby teeth emerge |
| About 3–4 months old | Baby teeth begin to fall out and permanent teeth emerge |
| About 6 months old | Most kittens have all 30 permanent teeth |
Timing varies between individual kittens.
What can be normal during tooth replacement
- Small baby teeth may fall out and be found on the floor or in a food bowl, or they may be swallowed, which is usually not a problem
- A temporary increase in chewing objects — offer soft toys
- Gums may be mildly red during tooth replacement; monitor marked redness
When to see a veterinarian
- A baby tooth and permanent tooth overlap in the same position, especially a canine — a retained baby tooth may affect alignment or gums and should be examined
- Gums are very swollen, bleeding, or painful
- Difficulty eating or heavy drooling
- A permanent tooth grows in at an angle and makes contact (see malocclusion)
Frequently asked questions
How many teeth does a kitten have?
Kittens have 26 baby teeth, which are replaced by 30 permanent teeth by around 6 months of age.
When do kittens lose their baby teeth?
Baby teeth generally begin falling out at about 3–4 months, and most permanent teeth are in place by around 6 months. Timing varies between kittens.
What should I do if a baby tooth does not fall out?
If a baby tooth and permanent tooth remain in the same position, especially a canine, the retained baby tooth can affect alignment and gums. A veterinarian should examine it.