Pet Teeth Guide: Number, Growth Stages & Dental Care Tips

3 min read
Pet Teeth Guide: Number, Growth Stages & Dental Care Tips

Dental health is one of the most overlooked parts of pet care, yet it plays a huge role in your pet's overall well-being. 

Bad teeth don't just cause bad breath; they can lead to serious health problems affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.

How Many Teeth Do Dogs and Cats Have?

Here's the breakdown:

  • Adult dogs: 42 teeth
  • Adult cats: 30 teeth
  • Puppies: 28 baby teeth
  • Kittens: 26 baby teeth

Growth Stages of Pet Teeth

Baby Teeth Stage - Deciduous Teeth

Baby teeth start to develop when puppies and kittens are just a few weeks old, usually around 2–4 weeks. These teeth are temporary and sharp; ask anyone who's been nipped by a teething puppy.

They eventually fall out as adult teeth come in, usually between 3 and 6 months of age.

Adult Teeth Stage - Permanent Teeth

Adult teeth replace baby teeth as pets grow. These are stronger, permanent, and meant to last a lifetime, but only if properly cared for.

By 6–7 months, most puppies and kittens have their full set of adult teeth.

Common Dental Problems in Pets

Even with the best care, dental issues can develop:

  • Plaque buildup: Sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth
  • Tartar accumulation: Hardened plaque that can't be brushed away
  • Gum disease (gingivitis/periodontitis): Infection and inflammation of the gums
  • Tooth decay: Cavities or broken teeth from trauma or poor health

If any of the above dental problems are left untreated, these problems cause pain, tooth loss, and infections that spread beyond the mouth.

Signs of Dental Issues

Watch for these warning signs:

  • Bad breath, chronic, not just after eating
  • Difficulty eating, dropping food, chewing on one side, avoiding hard kibble
  • Swollen or bleeding gums, red instead of healthy pink
  • Drooling excessively, especially with blood or pus
  • Pawing at the mouth or rubbing face on furniture
  • Loose or missing teeth

If you notice any of these, schedule a vet visit. Dental pain is real pain, even if your pet doesn't show it obviously.

Dental Care Tips for Pet Parents

  1. Regular Brushing: Use pet-safe toothpaste, never human toothpaste; it's toxic to pets, to brush your pet's teeth 2–3 times a week or daily if possible. It feels awkward at first, but most pets get used to it.
  2. Provide Dental Treats and Chews: Chewing helps scrape away plaque naturally. Look for vet-approved dental chews or toys designed for oral health. Shop for vet-approved chew toys for your pet from Petrite.
  3. Routine Vet Checkups: Professional dental cleanings remove tartar that brushing can't reach. Most pets need cleanings every 1–2 years, depending on their dental health.
  4. Feed Quality Food: Good nutrition supports strong teeth and healthy gums. Dry kibble can help reduce plaque buildup compared to only wet food, though both have their place in a balanced diet.

Helpful Resources for Pet Parents

Healthy teeth mean a healthier, happier pet. Small daily habits, like brushing, providing dental chews, and feeding quality food, can prevent major dental problems that are painful and expensive to treat.

Don't wait until your pet has obvious dental pain to start caring about their teeth. Prevention is always easier than treatment.

Get Quality Pet Food to Support Overall Health

If you've been searching for where to buy pet food near me in Lagos or anywhere in Nigeria, Petrite offers affordable pet essentials, including original and quality food for dogs and cats, with nationwide delivery.

Good nutrition supports healthy teeth, strong gums, and overall wellness, because dental health starts with what your pet eats.