Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

At what age are all deciduous teeth normally shed in canines and felines?

1. 4-6 months

2. 6-8 months

3. 8-10 months

4. 10-12 months

The correct answer is: 6-8 months

The correct timeframe for the shedding of all deciduous teeth in canines and felines is typically around 4 to 6 months of age. During this period, puppies and kittens lose their baby teeth to make way for their permanent dentition. This process begins around 3 weeks of age when the deciduous teeth start to erupt, and by the time they reach about 4 to 6 months, most if not all of the baby teeth have been replaced by permanent teeth. Monitoring dental development in young animals is important, as it can offer insights into their health and development. While the answer given suggests a later timeframe of 6 to 8 months, this period primarily refers to the transition phase rather than when all teeth are completely shed. Therefore, it is key to remember that the complete shedding of deciduous teeth typically occurs slightly earlier, providing a clearer indication of the expected dental timeline in these animals.