Teething in cats – when kittens learn to bite
Cats are originally predators with very strong teeth. Perfect teeth are not only important for cats that live in the wild , but also for all house cats. Inadequately developed teeth or poor dental hygiene can lead to various diseases. For this reason, it is particularly important to keep an eye on dental health from the kitten stage.
In today's blog post, we will explain what teething in cats is all about, which factors play an important role in your cat's dental health and how you can care for your kitten's teeth at an early age.
When do cats change their teeth?
Cats go through three phases in their lives that are directly related to teething. The first two phases of teething occur in kittenhood and radically change the teeth.
Phase 1: The milk teeth are already forming in the mother's womb. However, the kittens' teeth do not come through the jaw until the second or third week of life. The incisors and canines are the first to appear. The molars follow about a week later. The milk teeth are complete at around eight weeks of age. The transition to hard cat food should also take place during this period.
Phase 2: The adult teeth can form as early as the fourth month of life. The soft baby teeth give way and make room for the permanent teeth. As the permanent teeth grow, the proportions of the skull change, particularly in the jaw area. The kitten's face changes shape from a round kitten face to a pronounced head shape. The adult teeth have significantly more teeth than the milk teeth. The length of the change of teeth is determined individually and sometimes by the breed. The process of changing teeth can take several weeks. However, the change of teeth should be completely finished by the 7th month of life at the latest.
Phase 3: The phase of age-related tooth loss is different for every cat. It is a natural process.
In all three phases, the better the dental care, the longer the teeth will last in old age. Regular prophylaxis and good dental hygiene are therefore essential for adult cats.
Measures to facilitate the change of teeth in kittens
As with dogs, careful dental care and dental hygiene are also advisable for cats. Our emmi®-pet ultrasonic toothbrush has an antiseptic effect and can provide relief from even the smallest gum irritation. As the milk teeth gradually come loose, smaller injuries can be treated very effectively with ultrasound.
You can also support your kitten when it comes to food. Offer soft food. Food that your kitten can easily digest and chew. Dry food or crunchy treats can work wonders to loosen loose teeth. Teething toys can also be used in this area.
You should also massage your cat's gums regularly. Our emmi®-pet ultrasonic toothbrush is perfect for this too. After all, it also serves as training for long-term dental care. This way, your cat can get used to regular dental hygiene in a playful way.
 |
|
 |
