Retained Baby Teeth in Cats: The Double Fangs Problem
Cats have 26 baby teeth (deciduous teeth) that start falling out around 11 weeks of age, making room for their 30 adult teeth. Sometimes — especially in small, flat-faced, and especially crowded-mouth breeds — a baby tooth doesn't come out when the adult tooth pushes through. The result is two teeth in one spot, and this is called a retained (persistent) deciduous tooth. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), retained baby teeth are one of the most common dental problems seen in kittens, and they rarely resolve on their own. This guide explains what causes them, why they matter, and what to do.
What Causes Retained Baby Teeth in Cats?
Several factors can cause a kitten's baby tooth to linger:
- Inherited bite issues — crowding or misalignment prevents normal shedding.
- Delayed eruption — the adult tooth grows alongside the baby tooth instead of pushing it out.
- Breed predisposition — brachycephalic (flat-faced) and small breeds are more prone to crowding.
- Faulty resorption — the root of the baby tooth fails to dissolve as it should.
The canines (fangs) are the most commonly retained teeth, which is why you'll often see two long fangs on one side of a kitten's mouth.
Why Retained Baby Teeth Are a Problem
It might look harmless, but a retained baby tooth sitting next to an adult tooth causes real issues:
- Food and bacteria get trapped between the two teeth, leading to plaque, tartar, and gingivitis.
- The adult tooth can be pushed out of alignment, causing bite problems and uneven wear.
- Gum pockets form, hiding infection and accelerating periodontal disease.
- Pain and discomfort can make your kitten reluctant to eat hard food.
The longer a retained tooth stays, the harder it is for the adult tooth to settle into a healthy position.
When to See a Vet
Book a vet appointment if you notice any of these:
- Two teeth growing in the same spot (especially doubled fangs)
- Baby teeth still present after 6 months of age
- Misaligned or crowded adult teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums around the area
- Difficulty eating or a sudden change in appetite
Vets typically recommend extracting retained baby teeth — ideally early, before the adult teeth fully settle. The extraction is quick, and kittens bounce back fast.
What to Do at Home While You Wait
You can protect a kitten with retained teeth (or any kitten going through teething) at home:
- Keep the mouth clean — gently wipe the gums and teeth daily to remove trapped food.
- Offer soft food — if eating is painful, soften kibble or switch temporarily to wet food.
- Monitor the area — watch for swelling, redness, or worsening pain.
- Start gentle dental habits early — the earlier a kitten tolerates mouth handling, the easier dental care is for life.
For gentle daily cleaning, RunyePet Dental Finger Wipes are soft and cat-safe, letting you wipe the gums and teeth without a brush. Adding RunyePet Dog Dental Cleaning Powder to food (for kittens 12 weeks and up) can help manage plaque while the adult teeth finish coming in.
Retained Baby Teeth vs Normal Teething
| Normal Teething | Retained Baby Tooth |
|---|---|
| Baby tooth falls out on its own by ~5-6 months | Baby tooth stays next to the adult tooth |
| No visible double teeth | Two teeth in the same spot |
| Mild chewing and drooling are normal | Pain, swelling, or trouble eating possible |
| Usually needs no intervention | Usually needs veterinary extraction |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will retained baby teeth in cats fall out on their own?
Rarely. Once an adult tooth has erupted and the baby tooth is still present, it's unlikely to shed on its own and usually needs veterinary removal.
Are retained baby teeth painful for kittens?
They can be. Trapped food and pressure from doubled teeth can cause gum irritation and discomfort, especially when eating. Watch for changes in appetite or chewing behavior.
Which breeds are most at risk for retained baby teeth?
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds and very small cats are more prone to crowding, which raises the risk of retained teeth. Mixed-breed kittens can also be affected.
How much does it cost to remove retained baby teeth in cats?
Costs vary by clinic and location, but extraction of a few retained baby teeth is generally a quick, lower-cost procedure compared to adult dental work. Your vet can give a specific estimate.
Can retained baby teeth be prevented?
Not entirely, but regular veterinary checkups during teething (11 weeks to 6 months) help catch them early, when removal is simplest and gentlest on the adult teeth.
The Bottom Line
Retained baby teeth in cats are common, easy to spot, and best handled early. If you see doubled fangs or a baby tooth lingering past 6 months, have your vet take a look. In the meantime, keep your kitten's mouth clean with RunyePet Dental Finger Wipes and set them up for a lifetime of healthy dental care.
