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My cat's canine tooth is falling out. Will it cause pain or issues?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 13 years and 11 months old

One of my cats lower canine tooth is coming out. It looks as if not much is holding it in place and I feel like its going to fall out soon. Its lying almost completely flat against his gum line instead of straight up and down like a normal canine tooth would. Im wondering if it comes out on its own if we need to take him to a vet? Hes still eating and he takes pain meds daily for arthritis. If the tooth falls out naturally will it still cause him pain? Should I be worried about him swallowing it

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 13th, 2018

As Dr Fernandez recommended, taking him in to the vet would be highly recommended. Regarding being worried about him swallowing the tooth should it fall out on its own--the answer there is that you do not need to worry about it. If he were to swallow a tooth, it would be digested enough by the acid in the stomach to pass without a problem.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While it could fall off on its own, sometimes the tooth itself can remain attached even when it appears to be almost out. For this reason, it would be best to have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. This would also limit the pain associated with this if taken out. Good luck and have a good night!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 2nd, 2016
I would recommend having your vet take a look at the mouth and determining a safe way to extract this tooth. You don't want to just rip it out yourself because it can cause severe pain and complications in the mouth (fracturing of the tooth), especially if it doesn't fall out on its own.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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