Does a cat's fangs need to be filed down a little sometimes?

Question

I am asking because I noticed our cat's 2 fangs seem to push down on her bottom lip.

Do vets file the fangs down to make them comfortable? Or is it normal for cat's fangs to be like that?

Answer 1

That sounds normal, though I'd need a pic to be sure.  I've never heard of anyone filing the teeth shorter.

Answer 2

We really need a bit more detail here - breed of cat and age probably being the most important.

However, provided the fangs are not actually cutting into the lip, I would suggest there is nothing to be concerned about - the upper/lower fang arrangement is the most significant part of a cats biting arsenal, they need to slide past each other and enable the cat to tear off pieces of meat from its prey, and the longer and meaner they are the better!

Answer 3

Perfectly normal.  Never file cat's teeth!  Ok exception might be if they crooked and hinder proper eating.  They not at all uncomfortable with top teeth being outside lower lip.  Have You not seen photos of Lions and Tigers?  It's the nature of the beast.  Skeletons of Sabretooth Tigers show upper fangs that nearly touch their chest.  Cats are carnivores and predators.  Their teeth and claws are their natural weapons, their tools for providing food for themselves and their offspring.  No ammount of domestication can change that.

Answer 4

I'd agree if it's causing your cat no harm it would be pointless to have them filed.

Most cats do use those fangs, if your are longer it could be the breed. Maine Coons for example are known for enlarged fangs, it aids in hunting.

Answer 5

If the vet files down the fangs, it should be permanent.  Cats do not continually grow their teeth like rodents do.  If it is causing a problem with your cat (perhaps even cutting into her lip), you can speak to the vet about it.  The vet would have to anesthetize her for the procedure (lots of money).  Again, whatever the vet does is permanent.  If it isn't bothering her, and the vet says it isn't bothering her, I say leave them alone.