Cat Teething Period

The cat's teething period starts around three months, which is when the permanent teeth begin to replace the milk teeth. The incisors start to change around 3-4 months, the canines and molars start to change around 4-5 months, and the premolars start to change around 4-6 months. The permanent teeth begin to grow at three months, with most of the growth completed by five months, and all the permanent teeth grow fully by seven months.

Reasons for Loss of Appetite During Teething

When a cat starts to become anxious and its gums become red and swollen, it means that the teething period has begun. After the teething process, the cat's teeth will increase from 26 to 30. A cat that refuses to eat during teething may do so due to swollen gums, which can cause temporary loss of appetite. However, owners do not need to worry.

Nutrition During Teething

During the teething period, a cat's appetite will significantly decrease. Owners need to provide the cat with food that is easy to chew. If the cat has difficulty chewing, owners can slightly soften the cat food before feeding it or switch to canned food. Canned food has a more balanced nutrition profile and adequate moisture, which makes it easier for the cat to eat and promotes oral comfort. This not only increases the cat's food intake but also protects the newly erupted teeth.

Points to Note During Teething

During the teething process, check the condition of the milk teeth falling out. If the permanent teeth emerge before the milk teeth have fallen out, it can cause crooked alignment and easy food residue build-up. It is best to brush the teeth regularly. Toys and harder cat food can help clean the teeth and assist the cat in the teething process. During the teething period, owners should prepare some easy-to-chew food to protect the newly erupted teeth and also pay attention to calcium supplementation to prevent calcium deficiency during the tooth growth process.