When Do Kittens Stop Teething? A Guide for Pet Owners
If you’re a new kitten owner, you might notice your furry friend chewing on everything from shoelaces to furniture. This behavior is often associated with teething, a natural process all kittens go through. Understanding the teething timeline helps pet owners manage discomfort and prevent damage.
What Is Teething in Kittens?
Kittens are born without teeth, but they soon begin developing them in the first few weeks of life. Teething is the phase during which baby teeth, also called deciduous teeth, emerge and eventually fall out to make way for adult teeth.
Teething Stages in Kittens
- 2–3 weeks: The first baby teeth start breaking through. These are usually the incisors.
- 3–4 weeks: Canines (fangs) emerge.
- 4–6 weeks: Premolars come in.
- 6–8 weeks: All 26 baby teeth should be in place.
- 3–4 months: Baby teeth begin to fall out as permanent adult teeth push in.
- 6–7 months: The adult teeth are usually fully in, totaling 30 teeth.
When Does Teething Stop?
Most kittens finish the teething process between 6 to 7 months of age. By this time, all 30 permanent teeth should be fully erupted. After this point, your kitten should no longer feel the discomfort that drives chewing behaviors.
Signs Your Kitten Is Teething
- Chewing: Increased chewing as a form of relief for sore gums.
- Drooling: Excessive drool may be present during intense teething phases.
- Irritability: Your kitten may be fussier or less playful than usual.
- Minor bleeding: You might notice small blood spots on toys or bedding.
- Loss of appetite: Eating may be painful during moderate to severe gum irritation.
How to Help a Teething Kitten
- Chew toys: Offer kitten-safe chew toys to satisfy the urge to gnaw.
- Cold compress: Chilling toys or cloths in the freezer can help soothe sore gums.
- Soft foods: Switch to softer food temporarily if chewing dry kibble appears painful.
- Veterinary check-ups: Regular exams help ensure teeth are erupting correctly and identify any issues early.
Common Teething Problems
While most kittens teethe without complication, some may experience problems such as:
- Retained baby teeth: These are baby teeth that don’t fall out and may need to be removed by a vet.
- Malocclusion: Misalignment of teeth that can cause eating difficulty or mouth trauma.
- Gingivitis: Swollen or inflamed gums may occur due to bacteria buildup.
When to Call the Vet
Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent bad breath
- Excessive bleeding
- Loss of adult teeth
- Signs of pain like pawing at the mouth
Conclusion
Understanding the teething process helps you prepare and support your kitten through each stage. Kittens typically stop teething by 6 to 7 months of age, at which point their permanent teeth are fully in. With patience, proper care, and a little extra love, your kitten will grow into a healthy adult cat with a strong and functional set of teeth.
