Cat care
Caring For Cats With No Teeth
Yes, it's possible for your kitty to have no teeth and still lead a happy life! Here's what to know if you've adopted, or are caring for, a toothless cat.
Several health conditions can cause a cat to lose their teeth, most commonly dental disease and tooth resorption, which often leads a vet to remove the affected teeth. You might feel sorry for a cat that has lost all their teeth, but the good news is they can still live a full, happy life.
Cats manage well without teeth. Many are more comfortable once painful, diseased teeth are removed and they're free of that oral pain and infection.
Make sure to
- Ask for their medical history. A shelter or previous owner may not know everything, but it's worth asking — your vet will want the records too.
- Get a full vet examination. Soon after adoption, have your cat checked over, including their mouth, by a vet experienced with dental problems.
- Never miss a check-up. Regular wellness checks matter for every cat, and even more if your cat's tooth loss was linked to an ongoing condition such as gum inflammation.
What to feed a cat with no teeth
Many cats without teeth eat wet food or even dry kibble just fine. Cats are hunters by nature: their teeth aren't designed for grinding food the way ours are, and they often swallow food in chunks. Their rough tongues also help pull food into the mouth.
Some toothless cats prefer dry food, others prefer wet. Offer what your cat is comfortable eating, and ask your vet if they seem to struggle, drool, paw at their mouth or lose weight.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Speak to your vet about your own cat's health.