Chewing is an important part of eating. The amount of chewing that is needed depends on the oral cavity design of the species. Dogs and cats are carnivores, and most of their teeth have pointed cusps. Knowing this, let’s look at the types of teeth dogs and cats have and how to feed pets with missing teeth.
Types of Teeth Dogs and Cats Have
Within the mouth of a dog or cat, there are different types of teeth, which are listed as follows:
- Incisors: These small peg-like teeth at the front of the mouth are typically used for prehension and grooming. They can be prone to trauma due to their location at the front of the mouth. There are six incisors on the upper jaw (maxilla) and six incisors on the lower jaw (mandible) for a total of 12 incisor teeth.
- Canine or fang teeth: These long-pointed teeth are used for grasping and grabbing. In the wild, these teeth are used for the apprehension of prey or fighting. Police dogs utilize their canine teeth during the apprehension of suspects. In many domesticated dogs, they are excellent toy grabbers There are two maxillary canine teeth and two mandibular canine teeth for a total of four canine teeth. The roots of these teeth are very long, and they are structurally important for the oral cavity.
- Pre-molar teeth: These are located behind the canine teeth and are considered shearing teeth. For example, a wild canine would use these teeth to rip and gnaw. Dogs have four maxillary canine premolars on each left and right side, which is the same for the mandible. Dogs have a total of sixteen premolar teeth. Cats have fewer premolar teeth—three maxillary ones on each side and two mandibular ones on each side for a total of ten premolar teeth. The maxillary fourth premolar is known as the maxillary carnassial tooth and is commonly mistakenly called a molar tooth.
- Molar teeth: These teeth have a mostly flat occlusal surface in the dog. There are two maxillary molar teeth (left and right) and three mandibular molar teeth (left and right) in the dog. The first mandibular molar tooth in dogs is referred to as the mandibular carnassial tooth and is the partner to the maxillary carnassial tooth. Cats have one maxillary molar tooth (left and right) and one mandibular molar tooth (left and right). The molar teeth are used for chewing or grinding prior to swallowing.
The total number of teeth that dogs have is 42, while felines have significantly less with a total tally of 20 teeth.
Bonus Trivia: We (humans) have 32 teeth.
Pets with Missing Teeth
Both dogs and cats adapt very well to missing teeth. If a tooth (or teeth) has been compromised by periodontal disease, trauma, or other dental affliction and is no longer of functional use, your pet’s oral health will be improved by removing the tooth or teeth.
Without having to navigate food around a painful tooth that is no longer of use, your pet will have a happier, healthier life. To date, dental implants have not been found to be a viable, successful treatment option for missing teeth.
Food Options for Pets with Missing Teeth
Despite long-term adaptation success, it may be initially challenging for pets to eat without teeth. Cats and dogs can adapt and still enjoy their meals. Here are a few ways to make it easier and allow for a smooth transition.
- Moistened Kibble: Soak dry kibble in warm water or pet-formulated broth to soften it.
- Wet Food: Canned food or specially formulated soft foods are easier to consume. This is an excellent option for cats.
- Forming the canned food in little mounds can assist the lips and tongue in grasping food.
- Adding a little warm water or pet-safe broth to make a gruel-like consistency may be preferable for some felines.
- Temptations can be crumbled up into food to enhance flavor.
- Homemade Meals: Prepare soft, easy-to-chew meals like finely ground meats or pureed vegetables.
- Balanceit.com has recipes for a homemade diet with the added expertise of a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
- Treats: Offer soft treats instead of hard ones to avoid any discomfort.
Your primary care veterinarian or veterinary dental specialist can offer suggestions for the best dietary options and ensure your pet’s nutritional needs are met.
Using Broth to Soften Kibble
For some dogs, canned food can cause soft stools. This is less likely to occur in felines. Softening kibble is a great option to avoid changing the diet but simply modify it.
*A word on using broth to moisten kibble. You may purchase a pet-formulated broth or a low-sodium human one. Ensure that neither onions nor garlic are used, as both can be toxic to dogs and cats.
A homemade broth is an alternative to purchasing a commercially made product. When it comes to making broth for your pets, it’s important to ensure it’s safe and nutritious. Here are some tips for preparing pet-safe broth:
- Ingredients: Use high-quality, pet-safe ingredients such as chicken or beef bones, and avoid adding onions, garlic, and excessive salt, as these can be harmful to pets. Discard any bones prior to use. Bones break teeth and can cause GI blockage, either of which is desired. Dogs and cats with cardiac and kidney disease should avoid having added salt.
- Cooking Method: Simmer the bones in water for an extended period (3-4 hours or longer) to extract all the nutrients. You can add some pet-safe vegetables like carrots, green beans, or celery for extra flavor and nutrients. A crock pot set on low provides for even longer seeping time, up to 8 hours.
- Cooling and Storage: Allow the broth to cool completely before serving. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for 5 days. You can freeze leftover broth in small portions for longer storage.
Homemade bone broth is a great way to modify and enhance a kibble for easier digestion. Additionally, there are the added benefits of collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, which are beneficial for joint health and digestion.
Final Thoughts
Pets can live a long, happy life with missing teeth. At Montana Pet Dentistry and Oral Surgery, your pet’s oral health is important to us. Please reach out to us to assist you with any of their oral health needs.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (01/23/2025) Photo by Bri Tucker on Unsplash