# Cat Teeth Falling Out: Normal or a Dental Problem? Cat teeth falling out can be completely normal or a sign of serious dental disease, depending on your cat's age. Kittens lose their baby teeth as permanent teeth come in, but adult cats should not lose teeth without a cause. When an adult cat's teeth loosen or fall out, periodontal disease, tooth resorption, or another treatable condition is usually behind it. This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. ## Quick Answer - Kittens normally lose 26 baby teeth and end up with 30 permanent teeth by about six months of age [1]. - Adult cats do not normally lose teeth. Loose or missing adult teeth almost always point to dental disease or injury [2][1]. - Periodontal disease, chronic gingivostomatitis, and tooth resorption are the three most common reasons cats need teeth extracted [3]. - Dental disease is common. Between 50 and 90 percent of cats older than four years have some form of it [4]. - A veterinary exam with dental radiographs is the only way to know what is happening below the gum line [2]. ## Do Cats' Teeth Fall Out? Normal Kitten Tooth Loss vs. Adult Tooth Loss ### Kitten teeth falling out Kittens grow two sets of teeth. The first set has 26 baby teeth, also called deciduous or milk teeth. These start coming in when a kitten is about four weeks old, and the full set is usually present by six weeks [1]. Around six months of age, the baby teeth fall out and are replaced by 30 permanent teeth [1]. It is normal for a kitten to lose teeth during this window. You may find a tiny tooth on the floor or in your kitten's bedding. You may also notice a little blood on a chew toy or mild drooling. Most kittens handle teething without much trouble. ### Adult cat teeth falling out Once the permanent teeth are in, they are meant to last. The word permanent is not quite accurate, though, because many adult cats eventually lose one or more teeth to injury or disease [1]. Only about 10 percent of cats make it through life without some kind of dental problem [1]. So if your adult cat has a loose tooth, or a tooth has fallen out, that is not normal. It is a reason to call your veterinarian. ## Signs Owners Notice When a Cat Is Losing Teeth Some cats show obvious signs. Others hide them well, because cats are good at masking pain. Watch for: - Loose teeth or a tooth that has already fallen out - Bad breath - Red, swollen, or bleeding gums - Drooling, sometimes with blood - Dropping food or chewing on one side - Eating less or refusing hard food - Pawing at the mouth or face - Swelling around the jaw or under the eye - Weight loss - Less grooming than usual Dental disease in cats can cause serious pain and discomfort, and it can affect a cat's quality of life [4]. In many cases, it causes a cat to stop eating, which leads to other health problems [4]. If your cat has stopped grooming or seems withdrawn, dental pain may be part of the picture. You can read more about that in [Why Is My Cat grooming less than normal? Obesity Dental Pain and Depression](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/symptom-guides/why-is-my-cat-grooming-less-than-normal-obesity-dental-pain-and-depression). ## Causes and Risk Factors for Cat Teeth Falling Out ### Periodontal disease Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is infection and inflammation of the tissues around the teeth. It starts with plaque, a film of bacteria that builds up at and below the gum line, often because of poor oral hygiene [2]. The infection inflames the gums, the ligaments that hold teeth in place, and the surrounding bone. If it goes untreated, teeth can be lost because the tissues supporting them are destroyed [2]. There are two forms: gingivitis and periodontitis [2]. Gingivitis is the early, reversible stage. Periodontitis is the more advanced stage that damages the tooth's support system. Periodontitis is the single most common reason cats have teeth extracted, accounting for about 33 percent of extractions in one large study [3]. It becomes more common with age [3]. Periodontal disease also does more than affect the mouth. Cats with moderate to advanced periodontitis show higher markers of oxidative stress in their blood, which is one way oral disease may connect to problems elsewhere in the body [5]. ### Tooth resorption Tooth resorption is a common and painful condition in which the tooth structure breaks down from the inside or at the surface [6]. It is one of the three most common dental diseases in cats, along with gingivitis and periodontitis [4]. It was the reason for about 15 percent of tooth extractions in one study, and like periodontitis, it tends to increase with age [3]. Tooth resorption can be sneaky. The tooth may look normal above the gum line while the root is being destroyed below it. That is one reason dental radiographs matter so much. ### Chronic gingivostomatitis Feline chronic gingivostomatitis is severe, painful inflammation of the gums and mouth. It accounted for about 32 percent of tooth extractions in one study [3]. Unlike periodontitis and tooth resorption, it tends to be seen more often in younger cats [3]. ### Other factors Genetics play a role. Some purebreds, including Abyssinians, Siamese, Maine Coons, Persians, and Somalis, tend to be at higher risk for dental disease [1]. Diet also matters. The modern cat's diet is considered a major underlying contributor to dental problems [1]. In one study of cats with tooth resorption, brachycephalic cats (flat-faced breeds) were younger at diagnosis and had more advanced lesions than other cats [6]. Injury can also loosen or knock out a tooth. So can a fractured tooth from chewing on something hard. | Condition | Typical age group | Common signs | Usual treatment | |---|---|---|---| | Kitten teething | Under 6 months | Tiny teeth found, mild drooling | None needed | | Gingivitis | Any age | Red, swollen gums, bad breath | Professional cleaning [2] | | Periodontitis | Older cats more often [3] | Loose teeth, gum recession, pain | Cleaning, possible extraction [2] | | Tooth resorption | Middle-aged to older cats [3] | Pain, trouble chewing, sometimes no visible sign | Extraction of affected teeth [6] | | Chronic gingivostomatitis | Often younger cats [3] | Severe mouth pain, drooling, eating less | Cleaning, extraction, medical management [3] | ## How Veterinarians Diagnose Dental Disease in Cats Your veterinarian starts with a full oral exam. They look at every tooth, the gums, the tongue, and the back of the mouth. They also check for swelling, discharge, and broken teeth. A visual exam is only part of the picture. Much of what causes teeth to loosen happens below the gum line, where you and your veterinarian cannot see it without imaging. Full-mouth dental radiographs (X-rays) are the standard way to find problems like tooth resorption, bone loss, and retained tooth roots [3]. Your veterinarian may also recommend blood work before anesthesia. This checks how your cat's kidneys, liver, and other organs are working, which helps the team choose safe drugs and monitor your cat during the procedure. ## Treatment Options for Loose or Missing Teeth Treatment depends on what is causing the problem. ### Professional dental cleaning For gingivitis and early periodontitis, the main treatment is a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia [2]. This removes plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. Cleaning without anesthesia may make the tooth look better, but it does not treat the plaque below the gum line, which is the real problem [2]. ### Extraction When a tooth is too damaged or too loose to save, extraction is often the only option [1]. This is common with advanced periodontitis, tooth resorption, and chronic gingivostomatitis [3]. Removing a painful tooth usually makes cats feel better, even if it means losing several teeth. ### Medical management For chronic gingivostomatitis, treatment may combine cleaning, extraction of affected teeth, and medications to control inflammation and pain. Your veterinarian will tailor the plan to your cat. ### Pain control Dental disease hurts. Your veterinarian will choose pain medication and calculate the dose based on your cat's weight and health. Never give your cat human pain relievers, which can be toxic to cats. If your cat needs a dental procedure, it helps to understand the risks ahead of time. You can read more in [Cat Dental Cleaning Risks](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/cat-dental-cleaning-risks). ## Recovery, Outlook, and Long-Term Management Most cats recover well after dental treatment. Many eat better and seem more comfortable within days, once the source of pain is gone. Some need soft food for a short time while the mouth heals. Losing teeth does not usually hurt a cat's ability to eat. Cats can do well with few or no teeth, because they swallow most of their food without much chewing anyway. The bigger issue is the disease that caused the tooth loss. If the underlying problem is not managed, it can affect other teeth and your cat's overall health. Long-term care usually means: - Regular veterinary dental exams, often once or twice a year - Professional cleanings as recommended - Home brushing with cat-safe toothpaste if your cat tolerates it - Watching for the signs listed above and reporting them early Dental disease is largely preventable or treatable with appropriate preventive care and monitoring [4]. That is good news. It means most of what happens to your cat's teeth is something you can influence. ## Prevention Prevention starts early and continues for life. Brush your cat's teeth with a soft brush and veterinary toothpaste. Start slowly, and reward your cat for tolerance. Daily brushing is ideal, but even a few times a week helps. Ask your veterinarian about dental diets and chews. Some products are designed to reduce plaque and tartar. Your veterinarian can recommend options that fit your cat's health needs. Keep up with professional cleanings. Your veterinarian can spot problems before they become painful or require extraction. Watch your cat's mouth at home. Lift the lip and look at the gums once a week. Look for redness, tartar, broken teeth, or bad breath. Feed a diet your veterinarian recommends. Diet is considered a major factor in dental problems in cats [1], so nutrition choices matter over the long term. For a deeper look at home care, see [Prevent Dental Problems In Cats](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/prevent-dental-problems-in-cats) and [How To Prevent Dental Problems In Cats](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/how-to-prevent-dental-problems-in-cats). ## Limitations and When to Contact a Veterinarian This article gives general information. Your cat's individual case needs a veterinarian who can examine your cat, take radiographs, and make a plan. Contact your veterinarian the same day if you notice: - A loose or missing adult tooth - Bleeding from the mouth - Drooling that started suddenly - Your cat is eating less or dropping food - Bad breath that is new or getting worse Seek emergency care now if you see: - Heavy bleeding that will not stop - Swelling around the eye or face - Trouble breathing - Your cat cannot close its mouth or is in obvious severe pain - Collapse, seizures, or a sudden change in mental state Some dental problems can become serious quickly. In rare cases, complications from dental procedures can be severe [7]. Do not wait if something seems wrong. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Do cats' teeth fall out on their own? Kittens lose baby teeth on their own as part of normal growth. Adult cats do not normally lose teeth on their own. When an adult tooth falls out, it usually means the tissues holding it in place have been destroyed by disease, or the tooth itself has been damaged. ### Is it normal for an adult cat to lose a tooth? No. Adult cats are not supposed to lose teeth. Only about 10 percent of cats get through life without a dental problem, and many lose teeth to injury or disease [1]. A loose or missing adult tooth is a sign to see your veterinarian. ### Can a loose tooth in a cat fix itself? No. A loose adult tooth will not tighten back up on its own. The support structures around the tooth have usually been damaged, and the tooth may need to be removed. Your veterinarian can take radiographs to see how much bone and ligament support is left. ### How can I tell if my cat is in dental pain? Cats often hide mouth pain. Signs include eating less, dropping food, chewing on one side, drooling, pawing at the mouth, bad breath, and less grooming. Some cats just seem quieter or sleep more. If you notice any of these, a dental exam is a good next step. ### What happens if I do nothing about my cat's dental disease? The disease keeps progressing. Periodontal disease destroys the bone and ligaments that hold teeth, so more teeth can loosen and fall out [2]. Pain can make your cat stop eating, which leads to other health problems [4]. Early treatment is easier on your cat and often less expensive than waiting. ## Related Articles - [Prevent Dental Problems In Cats](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/prevent-dental-problems-in-cats) - [How To Prevent Dental Problems In Cats](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/how-to-prevent-dental-problems-in-cats) - [Cat Dental Cleaning Risks](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/cat-dental-cleaning-risks) - [Dental Disease In Dogs And Cats](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/dental-disease-in-dogs-and-cats) - [Why Is My Cat grooming less than normal? Obesity Dental Pain and Depression](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/symptom-guides/why-is-my-cat-grooming-less-than-normal-obesity-dental-pain-and-depression) - [How To Treat Dental Disease In Cats](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/dental-care/how-to-treat-dental-disease-in-cats) ## References 1. [When Kitty Needs a Dentist](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/when-kitty-needs-dentist). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. 2. [Dental Disorders of Cats - Cat Owners](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners/digestive-disorders-of-cats/dental-disorders-of-cats). Merck Veterinary Manual. 3. [The prevalence of reasons for tooth extraction in cats](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40727267/). Frontiers in veterinary science, 2025. 4. [Feline Dental Disease](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-dental-disease). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. 5. [Moderate to advanced periodontitis contributes to increased oxidative stress in cats: a case-control study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38849865/). BMC veterinary research, 2024. 6. [Association of Skull Type, Diet, and Chronic Gingivostomatitis with Tooth Resorption in Cats Receiving Dental Treatment](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41514822/). Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 2026. 7. [Ascending bacterial optic neuritis and meningoencephalitis following tooth extraction in a cat](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41398265/). BMC veterinary research, 2025. ## Further Reading - [Merck Veterinary Manual: Cat Owners](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners) - [Cornell Feline Health Center: Health Information](https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information) - [American Veterinary Medical Association: Pet Care](https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare)