It’s not always easy to tell how old a cat is, but their teeth can give you some clues. Here’s a quick guide on how to tell a cat’s age by their teeth.
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Introduction
How old is that cat? Whether you’re a new cat owner or you’re curious about the age of a stray kitty you’ve taken in, there are several ways to estimate a cat’s age. The most accurate way is to have a veterinarian examine the cat’s teeth and determine the age that way. However, there are also some visual cues you can look for at home to get an idea of how old Kitty might be.
How to Tell a Cat’s Age by Their Teeth
As cats age, their teeth go through a lot of changes. By looking at a cat’s teeth, you can get a pretty good idea of how old they are. In this article, we’ll show you how to tell a cat’s age by their teeth.
Kitten Teeth
All kittens are born with their baby teeth, which are called deciduous teeth. These teeth usually begin to fall out when the kitten is 4-6 months old, and are replaced by their adult teeth. You can usually tell a kitten’s age pretty accurately by looking at their teeth — here’s how.
If all of the kitten’s deciduous teeth have erupted, they are probably around 4-5 months old. If some of the permanent teeth have begun to come in, they are probably around 6 months old. At 8-9 months old, all of the permanent teeth should be in place.
Adult Cat Teeth
Once a cat reaches adulthood, they will have a full set of 30 teeth. This includes 12 incisors, 4 canines, 10 premolars, and 4 molars (both on the top and bottom jaw). All of the adult teeth should be in by the time the cat is 1 year old. The canines will be the last to come in, usually around 9-12 months old.
You can use your cat’s teeth to estimate their age just like you would for a human. Look for signs of wear and tear, as well as any discoloration or staining. If a cat’s teeth are yellow or brown, it’s likely due to years of built-up plaque and tartar. You can also look at the gums for any redness or inflammation, which can be indicative of gingivitis.
Senior Cat Teeth
While a human’s teeth can last a lifetime, a cat’s teeth are not permanent. A kitten’s baby teeth, called deciduous teeth, start to fall out when they are 4-6 months old and are replaced by their permanent teeth. By the time they are one year old, a cat should have all 30 of their adult teeth.
As a cat ages, their teeth can yellow and become stained. Tartar can also build up on their teeth, which can lead to gum disease. These changes are more common in senior cats and outdoor cats. Indoor cats typically have cleaner teeth because they don’t eat as much dirt and debris.
If you think your cat may be experiencing dental problems, take them to the vet for an evaluation. Your vet can clean your cat’s teeth and provide guidance on how to best take care of your cat’s oral health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cats age differently than humans and it can be difficult to tell a cat’s age just by looking at them. However, their teeth can give you some clues. Younger cats tend to have whiter, sharper teeth while older cats may have yellowing or worn down teeth. If you’re unsure about your cat’s age, ask your veterinarian for help.
