Best Foods for a Cat's Teething Stage

Part 1: What to Feed Your Cat During the Teething Phase When Appetite is Decreased?

During the teething phase, cats may experience a decrease in appetite due to issues like toothaches and sensitive gums. To help your feline friend, consider preparing some soft or liquid foods that are easy to chew. You can soften their dry kibble by soaking it, or offer them a mix of cooked fish and fish broth to soak their kibble in. Alternatively, switching to canned food can be beneficial, as it contains more moisture and a more balanced nutrition profile. This type of food is less likely to irritate the gums and is often more palatable for cats. Such measures not only encourage eating but also protect the emerging teeth.

Supplements like soft fish can be added to their diet, as they are easy to digest and rich in calcium. However, it's important to avoid feeding canned food or homemade meals exclusively, as this may lead to picky eating habits in the long run.

Part 2: Nutritional Needs During the Cat's Teething Phase

1. Calcium and Phosphorus Intake

Cats going through the teething phase require a diet rich in calcium and phosphorus. Offer them soft, easily digestible foods like fish, goat's milk, pork bone broth, and liver. To ensure they receive adequate phosphorus, include foods such as fish and liver. For convenience, you can also supplement their diet with highenergy calcium supplements designed for pets, which provide calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D to support healthy tooth development.

2. Vitamin Intake

Contrary to popular belief, cats, although primarily carnivores, still need a source of vegetables for vitamins. You can provide your cat with carrots, broccoli, lean meat, and egg yolks to boost their vitamin B intake. If your cat is not fond of vegetables, consider using petspecific multivitamin tablets.

Important Note: During the teething process, monitor the shedding of deciduous teeth. If a deciduous tooth does not fall out and a permanent tooth has already emerged, it can lead to misalignment or crooked teeth. If this occurs, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for a potential tooth extraction.