Cats and Dogs—Anatomy of the Mouth

By understanding the structure and function of their pets' mouths, pet parents can better appreciate the significance of dental health and take proactive steps to ensure that their pets maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Basic Anatomy of the Mouth

The mouths of both cats and dogs are complex and well-designed structures, essential for various functions such as eating, grooming and communication. While there are some differences between the two species, the basic anatomy of their mouths shares several key components.

Lips: The lips are the outermost part of the mouth, serving as a protective barrier. They help in holding food and keeping the mouth moist.

Cheeks: The cheeks assist in manipulating food within the mouth, aiding in the chewing process. They also play a role in facial expressions and communication.

Teeth: Teeth are crucial for breaking down food. Cats and dogs have different types of teeth, each serving a specific function: incisors for cutting, canines for tearing and premolars and molars for grinding.

Gums: The gums are the soft tissue that surrounds the teeth and covers the jawbones. Healthy gums are essential for overall dental health, providing support and protection for the teeth.

Tongue: The tongue is a muscular organ that aids in eating, drinking and grooming. It also plays a vital role in the sensory perception of taste.

Salivary Glands: These glands produce saliva, which helps in the digestion of food and keeps the mouth moist. Saliva also has antibacterial properties that contribute to oral health.

Hard and Soft Palate: The hard palate forms the roof of the mouth, separating the oral and nasal cavities. The soft palate is located behind the hard palate and aids in swallowing and breathing.

Teeth Structure and Function

Cats and dogs have specialised teeth structures that reflect their dietary needs and natural behaviours.

Number and Types of Teeth in Cats

Cats have a total of 30 teeth, which include:

Incisors: Cats have 12 incisors, 6 on the top and 6 on the bottom. These small, sharp teeth are used primarily for cutting and nibbling on food.
Canines: Cats have 4 prominent canine teeth, 2 on the top and 2 on the bottom. These long, pointed teeth are essential for tearing meat and grasping prey.
Premolars: Cats have 10 premolars, 6 on the top and 4 on the bottom. These teeth help in shearing food into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Molars: Cats have 4 molars, 2 on the top and 2 on the bottom. While not as prominent as in some other animals, cat molars assist in grinding food.

Number and Types of Teeth in Dogs

Dogs have a total of 42 teeth, which include:

Incisors: Dogs have 12 incisors, 6 on the top and 6 on the bottom. These teeth are used for cutting and nibbling on food, as well as grooming.
Canines: Dogs have 4 canines, 2 on the top and 2 on the bottom. These large, pointed teeth are crucial for tearing food and defensive purposes.
Premolars: Dogs have 16 premolars, 8 on the top and 8 on the bottom. These teeth are important for cutting and slicing food.
Molars: Dogs have 10 molars, 4 on the top and 6 on the bottom. These teeth are used primarily for grinding food, reflecting their omnivorous diet.

Functions of Different Types of Teeth

Cutting: Incisors in both cats and dogs are designed for cutting food into small, manageable pieces. They are also used for grooming and delicate tasks such as picking up small objects.
Tearing: Canine teeth are essential for tearing into meat. In the wild, these teeth help predators grasp and immobilise their prey.
Grinding: Premolars and molars work together to grind food into smaller particles that are easier to swallow and digest. This function is particularly important for dogs, which have a more varied diet that includes both meat and plant materials.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining your pet’s dental health. Knowing when to seek professional help can prevent minor issues from becoming serious health problems.

Signs that Indicate a Need for Professional Dental Care

Pet parents should be vigilant for the following signs, which indicate that their pet may need professional dental care:

Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental disease or infection.
Drooling: Excessive drooling, especially if it is unusual for your pet, may indicate dental problems.
Difficulty Eating: If your pet is dropping food, chewing on one side, or showing reluctance to eat, it could be due to dental pain or discomfort.
Swollen or Bleeding Gums: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease.
Loose or Missing Teeth: Teeth that are loose or falling out are a serious indicator of advanced dental disease.
Pawing at the Mouth: Pets that frequently paw at their mouths may be experiencing pain or irritation from dental issues.
Visible Tartar and Plaque Buildup: Yellow or brown deposits on your pet’s teeth can lead to more serious dental problems if not addressed.