Do cats have bottom teeth? Your cat’s teeth and gums are essential for its overall health. Unfortunately, not all pet parents pay attention to what happens in their furry friends’ oral health until they show signs of distress or pain.
They have four large canines and several smaller ones that line their bottom and top jaws. These sharp teeth can puncture, tear, and injure human and animal flesh because they are really for hunting.
Do Cats Have Bottom Teeth?
It’s widely believed that cats have bottom teeth composed of incisors, premolars, molars, and canines. Apart from chewing, tearing, and crushing their food, these teeth protect the cat’s tongue from protruding.
Not all cats have top teeth. Some may lose their upper or lower teeth due to injuries, periodontal disease, or other conditions. Having regular dental checkups can help prevent tooth loss and detect early signs of dental issues.
Although your cat may have lost one or more teeth, it’s not a concern. Cats are resilient and can still live whole and happy life. To maintain their health, you may have to adjust their diet. For instance, if your cat has lost a tooth that’s vital for chewing, you may have to compensate with wet food for easier chewing. This combination of nutritious and easy-to-chew food will keep its food balanced.
Kinds Of Cat Teeth
Although there are varying numbers of teeth in cats and humans, all of us share the same type of teeth. Cats have flat, sharp surfaces, ideal for gnawing and serving as carnivores.
Cats have incisors in the front teeth and use them for snipping. It is when they graze on grass. The canine teeth, which are behind the incisors, are big and strong. They’re usually visible when a cat is resting. These teeth bite into and grab another animal’s flesh while defending themselves.
Wide teeth, known as premolars, are found on the sides of the mouth. Cats use these to bite and grasp prey. On the other hand, there are fewer premolars on the bottom portion of the jaw for felines. They’re smaller than the premolars and help break down hard food.
Importance Of Healthy Teeth For Cats
Cats have sharp, pointed teeth for hunting, picking up items, defending themselves, and eating. As with other carnivores, their teeth are essential for their survival. It is, therefore, vital that you take good care of them.
Although brushing and regular food are some of the best ways to keep your cats healthy, they can still develop dental problems as they age. Poor oral health can direct to other health conditions affecting our pets, such as kidney and heart disease. Having a pet dental checkup at least once a year is essential to maintain good health.
What Are The Common Cat Dental Problems?
Cats are known to hunt and kill prey using their teeth. Their impressive molars and fangs are for other activities, such as fighting and grooming. Strong teeth play an essential role in a cat’s overall health.
Your cat’s teeth expose to various types of injuries and dental issues; without proper care and maintenance, it could develop periodontal disease. This condition could lead to bad breath, behavioral problems, and oral pain.
It can be hard to describe when your cat is struggling with discomfort or oral pain, primarily because cats will hide their pain. It can no longer hide if the disease has advanced to an advanced stage. Infections and osteomyelitis are the most common dental issues affecting a cat. Periodontitis and gingivitis are also common.
Read also: The Best Soft Food for Cats with Bad Teeth to Buy
Taking Care Of Your Feline’s Teeth
It’s your responsibility as a cat parent to ensure that your pet’s teeth are healthy. Brushing your pet’s teeth at least once a week is essential. A regular cat brush is fine for most cats, but you can use pet finger toothbrushes to make brushing easier.
You can use these items to keep your cat’s teeth clean. These include dental wipes, cat chew toys, and antimicrobial rinses. Training your pet to accept this routine will help keep their teeth and gums in tip-top shape. It’s also essential to check their gums at least once a month.
Annual checkups are essential for your cat’s dental health. Your veterinarian will thoroughly clean to remove plaque and tartar, and they can also check for potential problems by examining the gums. Professional cleaning can help prevent future issues and improve the quality of life for your pet.
Read also: Toothpaste for Cats with Gingivitis: 5 Editor Picks and Buying Guide
Tips For Preventing Dental Problems On Your Cat
Cats can’t notify us when they have a toothache or are feeling discomfort, but they can still suffer from painful oral issues, which can have long-term effects on their health.
You wouldn’t know it, as cats tend to hide their pain and make it seem acceptable. Being proactive about your pet’s dental health can help prevent them from developing painful mouths and undergoing costly surgery.
Here are some of the most basic yet essential things you need to do to prevent dental problems for your furry friend at home:
Don’t Ignore Bad Breath
Although the smell of fish may seem normal to some pet parents, having bad breath is a strong indication that your cat has dental issues. Your animal’s breath will only get worse if they don’t go to the vet clinic as soon as possible. Either tooth decay or gum disease can cause it.
Although occasional bleeding gums are harmless, your cat might require a tooth extraction or deep cleaning due to bad breath and bleeding gums.
Read also: 5 Dental Water Additives for Cats to Keep its Breath Fresh
Stimulate Gums
Brushing and regular dental care can help prevent tooth decay, but it’s essential to keep in mind that inflamed or irritated gums can start to develop eventually.
Your cat’s gums should always be healthy and pink. Red or inflamed gums can be a sign of dental disease. You can improve your cat’s gums by brushing regularly and applying a gentle massage. It will help strengthen them and prevent them from developing problems later.
Buy Cat Toys
Cats are known to eat hard bones because they are predators. Teeth brushing can help keep them healthy and prevent them from developing tartar buildup. Since domesticated cats do not eat other animals for their meals, some veterinarians suggest giving them toys that are hard to chew on.
Your cat’s chew toys should be pretty straightforward. Certain toys can cause tooth fractures. You should also check for toys that are made for cats specifically.
Read also: Toys For Cats That Like To Chew
Drink Tons Of Water
Drinking can help remove food debris from a cat’s mouth after eating. Ensure your pet drinks plenty of water to keep the cats hydrated.
Tooth decay and gum disease link to chronic illnesses like kidney disease and heart disease. It is essential to check your cat’s teeth for signs of distress. Most cats do not show discomfort until they are in a lot of pain. A good diet and regular dental care can help keep them healthy and happy.
Read also: Can Cats Drink Spring Water?
Conclusion
Do cats have bottom teeth? Yes, and you should take care of them as well. Although it might seem impossible to understand your cat’s dental anatomy, it is essential to remember that her oral health is essential.
Like humans, cats have various types of teeth. They help them hunt and kill prey. The incisors, canines, molars, and premolars occupy the lower and upper jaws. The bottom teeth are responsible for protecting the tongue.
Your cat’s dental health is essential, and you must take the necessary steps to prevent it from developing problems such as dental and gum diseases. One of the most effective modes to prevent these conditions is by brushing and maintaining a good diet.
