Maine Coon cats are not born with any teeth but they soon develop teeth as they grow along. During the first 6 months of their life-span they go through a series of dental development to prepare them.
MaineCoon kittens develop between 24-26 milk teeth in the first 3 months, at that stage of development. While adult Mainecoons have about 30 strong, permanent teeth that are wider, stronger with more subtle edges which are suited to break down solid food.
During the first 6 months of dental growth and development. The Mainecoon cat will form temporary teeth, known as milk teeth which they then lose to make room for permanent teeth. The milk teeth is there to preserve space and to allow the gum to mould in a certain way preparing itself for adult teeth which will soon follow.
Here’s a glimpse into the dental development of Maine Coon teeth.
- 0-1 Month – kittens have no visible teeth when born, yet after two or three weeks sharp tips (deciduous incisors) start to poke through the gum. At week 4 the deciduous premolars start to erupt.
- 1-2 Months – At this stage of development the kitten may have all teeth or most of it. Full set of temporary teeth should be about 24-26
- 3-4 Months – Growth of permanent teeth start within the gums directly above each milk teeth. This process is not visible but it takes place within the gums at this time period.
- 4-5 Months – Within this time frame, the kittens milk teeth start to detach from the gums and fall out while the permanent teeth growths back in the same gap.
- 5-7 Months – All 30 of the cats permanent teeth should be present. Teeth are stronger, broader and more suited for solid foods.
Do Maine Coons have Big Teeth?
Mainecoons are the largest cat breed known for their big size, muscular bodies and tough exterior,but do they have big teeth too?
Maine coons have normal sized teeth the same as any other domestic cat. They biggest teeth are their 4 canines known as fangs situated on either sides upper and lower set. This teeth are used for killing of prey and also used as a defensive mechanism when faced with danger.
There are a lot of misconceptions about Maine coon cats. One of them is that they have big teeth. Maine coons may be big in size and visually scary but there teeth are averaged sized. Like with most other cat breeds, there teeth size and dental structure is almost identical.
The size of Mainecoon teeth is also dependant of their origins and the presence of any mixture or cross breeding.
When do Maine Coons Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Maine’s go through a process of teeth formation then they fall out just to reappear. Their dental development is very important and essential for their lifespan.
Mainecoons develop baby teeth within the first month of birth. Generally between month 4-5 they tend to lose their baby teeth better known as “milk teeth”, which loosens from the gum and falls out. This soon makes way for permanent stronger teeth which they will require to breakdown food.
The baby teeth which are sharp and pointy acts like placeholders within the gums to make room for the mature permanent teeth. The falling of the baby teeth is an essential part of the process as the permanent teeth that starts growing from within the gum pushes out from the same canal as the baby teeth.
The permanent teeth are more stronger, wider with flat edges. 30 teeth finally appear, which consists of 3 upper and lower incisors on each side, 1 upper and lower canine(fangs) on each side, 3 upper and lower premolars on each side and 1 upper and lower molar on either sides.
Each teeth have its own purpose and function.
1. Incisors – These teeth are used to breakdown food into smaller pieces making it more digestible. Its also used for scratching and grooming.
2. Canines – better known as fangs. These are the biggest and sharpest teeth used for killing prey as well as defence when in danger.
3. Molars and Premolars – These teeth are sharp and serrated. Their main function is to tear through the body of their prey.
Teeth Problems Associated with Maine Coons?
There are a lot of dental problems and diseases associated with cats specifically Maines. Above all simple dental hygiene can prevent most dental problems.
Periodontal Disease
Maine are at risk for periodontal disease. This disease Is caused by the build-up of bacteria between teeth and gums. This is caused when food particles remain in between teeth gaps and around the gums creating the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
The bacteria grow and form plaque, if the plaque isn’t removed it leads to tooth decay and in severe cases gum disease. A simple way to prevent this is to brush regularly or treat the cats to some dental chews. The FELINE GREENIES Natural Dental Care Cat Treats are the perfect hassle-free way to clean cats teeth.
Another great way to get cats teeth cleaned without brushing is by using dental wipes. Many cats resist brushing as they become difficult to handle. The use of dental wipes, the Petkin Plaque Toothwipes helps with bad breath, cleans teeth and gums. These wipes come in a pack of two containing 40 wipes each per container. Get it now conveniently from Amazon.
Stomatitis
Stomatitis is a condition that causes painful swelling, blisters or sores inside the mouth, inner cheeks gums or tongue. This can be caused by a disease, injury, infection, allergic reaction or irritation of certain foods.
Fractures
Most of the time fractures are caused by trauma within the mouth. It could be by force or while the cat is playing. The most common fractures occurs on the canine teeth, due to the fact that they are the longest teeth and used mostly for piercing through objects, toys and prey. The breakage or crack of the teeth results in exposure of the root canal causing severe pain and discomfort.
Feline Resorption
This is the erosion of the hard outer layer of the teeth where the enamel is left fragile and slowly falls away exposing the root canal. This part of the teeth is where vessels and nerves are located, when this part is exposed it causes severe pain and discomfort.
Because this erosion occurs below the gum line, it’s difficult to diagnose and is often left under-diagnosed which later worsens until medical attention or extraction is needed.
Maine coons and Teeth Grinding
Tooth grinding medically known as Bruxism. Bruxism has many possible causes such as oral or dental pain, jaw fracture, tooth resorption, and dental abscesses.
Due to underlying medical dental or oral issues. The Maine cat will resort to Grinding of teeth as their way of venting or to relieve the pain or discomfort. The grinding serves as a coping mechanism to deal with the pain.
Additionally, tooth misalignment may be a cause of teeth grinding in cats. “Abnormal tooth alignment, also known as malocclusion, creates friction or grinding between the upper and lower teeth. As a result this sound will be heard whenever the cat bites or chew.
Main Coons and Bad Breath
Bad breath medically know as halitosis is very common in felines, Mainecoons in specific. This can be the result of a variety of underlying issues or a symptom to a more severe disease. Some of the causes could be
- Periodontal disease
- Infected masses
- Diabetes
- Bad oral hygiene
- Dietary issues
- Gingivitis
Ways to fix bad breath
In order for you to fix something it first needs to be broken, therefore you need to observant and check if the bad breath persist or if its just occasionally.If the bad breath is just occasionally it could be blamed on poor hygiene or on the diet of that specific day.
If the bad breath persist the best thing is to consult with your local vet immediately to set a course of action. Allow the experts to do a proper checkup and come up with a diagnosis so it can be treated.
Preventing bad breath
Prevention is always better than cure and the best prevention starts with good dental hygiene. It may sound absurd but Maine coons are required to brush their teeth daily. Brushing removes any left over food particles preventing any bacteria growth and tartar build up.
Tips for easy brushing Maine coons teeth
- Get a good tooth paste that this designed for felines, something with a mild to moderate taste.
- Buy a brush, appropriately sized that is soft yet resistant.
- Hold the cat on your lap in a comfortable position and play with them until they feel relaxed and at ease.
- Let the cat get a taste of the paste.
- Gently expose their teeth and brush in a circular motion, making sure you remove any food and plaque.
- This will take time and effort since the cat isn’t used to it.
- With repetition, brushing will become just another daily routine a part of your cats lifestyle.
Brushing their teeth is only one of several ways to clean Maine coons teeth, other ways to clean their teeth involves.
1. Finger brushes – is a little brush that fits over your finger that removes plaque and particles from teeth.
2. Dental wipes – these are hygiene wipes specifically made for teeth to remove dirt keeping them clean.
3. Textured foods – certain foods that are specially made for cats to bite on which cleans their teeth in the process.
Best Toothbrushes for Maine Coons?
Brushing your Mainecoons teeth is not only important its a preventative and is rather essential for their dental health and oral hygiene. Choosing the right brush can be a bit of a struggle since there are so many factors to consider. Luckily I’ve compiled a list of recommended toothbrushes that will be perfect for Maine coons which are highly rated.
- The BC Pets Premium 3-Sided Pet Toothbrush Set which is vet-approved for an all-round dental cleaning targeting hard to reach places. Comes in a pack of 3 with a travel case included. Rated 4 and 1/2 stars, perfect for cats of all ages. Get it now conveniently from Amazon.
2. BODHI Cat Finger Tooth Brush. Perfect for difficult cats that don’t like brushing. Made of high-quality silicone for extra strength yet comfortable on the gum. Check the latest price on Amazon.
3. Milecan Cat Dental Toy Toothbrush. This interactive toy helps remove plaque and tartar build-up when the cat bites on it. Made of natural rubber that’s easy on the gums yet tough on dirty making it perfect for cats teeth, especially those cats that don’t like brushing. Get it now on Amazon.
Related Questions
1. How long does it take for a maine coon fur to grow back ? It may take 5-6 months for a fully shaven mainecoon to get its fur back. Maine coons have long fur and it takes time for it to grow back to normal.
2. Do maine coons like water ? Yes, maine coons love water and are very fascinated by it. They like to play and discover with the water from their water bowls. Something about water just amazes them.
