When Do Kittens Start Getting Teeth?

1 Kitten Teething Timeline

When do kittens get teeth? The answer is not as simple as you might think. This article looks at the timing, order, and process of kitten teething, with useful tips. Whether you are a new or experienced owner, it is worth reading.

When do kittens start teething?

Kittens begin growing baby teeth at 2 to 3 weeks, while still nursing. The new teeth are slightly translucent, sharp, and slow-growing. Baby teeth total 26: 12 incisors, 4 canines, and 10 premolars. Around 3 months, as the skull grows, they start losing baby teeth, finishing near 6 months; adults have 30 teeth, the 26 plus 4 molars.

Order of teething

Incisors come first and are replaced first, growing at 2 to 3 weeks and becoming permanent at 3 to 4 months. Canines total 4, growing at 3 to 4 weeks, replaced after incisors. Premolars total 10, growing at 3 to 6 weeks, replaced at 4 to 6 months. Molars total 4, absent in baby teeth, appearing at 4 to 6 months once adult teeth are in.

Note that each kitten differs; some are early or late, which is normal. If baby teeth are very late or something looks wrong, consult a vet.

Care during teething

Teething can be uncomfortable or painful as gums inflame. To help: offer soft food like kitten mush or wet food for easy chewing; keep the mouth clean with gentle brushing or chew toys; and spend more time comforting a restless kitten.

Teething is a natural, important stage. Watch your kitten and step in when needed, and you will help it thrive.