Can Cats Manage Without Their Teeth? [Answered]

For modern humans, teeth seem to be essential. We chew with them, and a life devoid of teeth would mean a radical change in diet.

They aid us in speaking, and the absence of teeth impairs our speech. Moreover, the aesthetics of a toothless smile can't be overlooked.

It's no surprise that the very thought of losing our teeth sends many rushing for dentures. But what about our feline companions?

Do they value their teeth as much as we value ours? Read on to learn about the fascinating world of cats and their unique dental relationships.

Cats And Their Dental Challenges

But what about our feline companions? Do they value their teeth as much as we value ours?

Toothless cats are not rare. Some cats lose their own naturally, usually due to old age and dental disease.

Many cats have their teeth extracted due to mouth and gum disease.

A fairly common syndrome called Lymphocytic Plasmacytic Gingivitis Stomatitis, or LPGS for short, is responsible for quite a few cats having all of their teeth extracted.

Sometimes canine teeth are left, while other times, it’s a full mouth extraction.

Concerns Of Cat Owners

This often brings worried owners to our cat health forum with lots of questions:

• “Will my cat manage without her teeth?”
• “Will I need to change my cat’s diet?”
• “How will my cat chew his food without any teeth?”

Well, good news! Cats manage just fine without their teeth! We have quite a few toothless felines in our community, and their owners come forward with reassuring words -

“I have several kitties who have had their teeth pulled.

After the initial surgery, they've all been much better off. They can eat better - both wet & dry food without any problems.” shared our member White Cat Lover.

Long-time member Momofmany shared this story about her toothless cat Stumpy, now a rainbow Kitty:

"My Stumpy … had the last of his teeth pulled about five years ago.

He ate dry food with no problems at all, in fact, he loved to steal dog kibble, which is much larger than cat kibble. He just sucked it down.

Stumpy was eating kibble at the vet after the teeth extraction before the drugs had worn off from the surgery (the vet tech had some food out for another cat and didn't think Stumpy would be interested in food - ha! Showed them)."

SIGN UP FOR THECATSITE'S EMAIL UPDATES >

In fact, OrientalSlave added this interesting tidbit: “I've seen a cat with just canine teeth eat a mouse - whole, head first!”

Feral Cats: A Special Mention

Feral cats are a special case. They can and do consume regular cat food without an issue. As our member catwoman707 shared in a post -

"There have been several cats through our rescue, the latest one was Cookie, a feral prego who I trapped, and she had her babies the next day.

She must have suffered terribly, as any/all kitties do; they are so good at hiding their pain but feel just as much as we do.

Within two days after removing all of her teeth, she was scooping up canned, learning how I'm sure, and as soon as I put her dry in her cage, she was chowing again, but without the pain!"

However, feral cats that rely on hunting as a major food source will not do well without any teeth.

Cats use their teeth to kill their prey; without teeth, a feral cat could lose a significant food source.

Because toothless ferals rely on their caregivers for food, a secure long-term solution must be worked out to ensure they keep receiving care for their entire lives.

The Remarkable Resilience Of Cats

Cats, with their uncanny adaptability, once again prove that they can thrive even in situations that might seem challenging.

Whether they have a full set of teeth or none at all, their ability to adapt and lead a pain-free, happy life is commendable.

As guardians of these resilient creatures, it's our duty to ensure they receive the right care, especially when it comes to their dental health.

Remember, the absence of teeth doesn't diminish a cat's zest for life; with proper care, they can continue to enjoy their meals and playtime just as much as before.

And as always, staying informed and consulting with veterinary professionals can make all the difference in your feline friend's well-being.

SIGN UP FOR THECATSITE'S EMAIL UPDATES >

Comments? Leave them using the form below. Questions about your cat? Please post them in the cat forums.

The forums are the only place to get quick answers to your cat-related questions. Please do not use the comments section to ask questions about your cat.

Pin the image below to share these insights with others.

Read more on:

How To Brush Your Cat’s Teeth [Step By Step Guide]

How to Handle Cat Bites: Essential Steps for a Quick Recovery

Note: We may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page.