Are you a cat parent with an elderly feline best friend? Or a younger kitty has lost some or all of her teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental problems.
Regardless of the situation, you might wonder what is the best cat food for cats with no teeth. Not only do these toothless cats need food that is easy for them to eat and digest, but they also need the necessary vitamins and minerals for a healthy diet.
Our top choice is I and Love and You Grain-Free Canned Cat Food.
This pate-style wet food makes it easy for toothless cats to eat. It also contains high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals, ensuring your cat gets a balanced diet. Plus, cats love the natural flavor.
We did not stop there. We also included other options and compiled a list of the best wet and dry food cats with no teeth can enjoy.
Our Top Picks: Best Cat Food For Cats With No Teeth
- I and Love and You Grain-Free Canned Cat Food (Best Overall Food)
- Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Adult Cat Food (Best Pate Food)
- Weruva Cats Grain-Free Canned Cat Food (Best Kibble Topper)
- Fancy Feast Variety Pack Canned Cat Food (Best Budget Food)
- Royal Canin Aging 12+ Canned Cat Food (Best For Senior Cats)
- Tiki Cat Velvet Mousse Variety Pack Wet Cat Food (Best For Picky Eaters)
- Sheba Perfect Portions Adult Wet Cat Food (Best Soft Food)
- Purina Beyond Canned Cat Food (Best Grain-Free Food)
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Cat Food (Best For Dental Problems)
- Purina ONE Tender Selects Dry Cat Food (Best Dry Food)
Best Wet Cat Food For Cats With No Teeth Reviewed
Cats with no teeth need food that is soft and easy to eat. Wet food is usually a great option because the moisture makes it easier to digest.
All the wet formulas on our list meet the standard AAFCO nutrient profile guidelines for cats.
I and Love and You Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 5.5% Crude Fat, 0.75% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 93 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Chicken, Salmon Broth, Chicken Liver, Natural Flavor
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Food Texture: Pate
Key Feature: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea-Free
Pros:
- High-quality proteins from salmon and chicken
- Grain-free and pea-free, making it easier to digest
- Balanced nutrition for cats of all sizes and life stages
- Different flavors available
- A natural flavor that cats love
Cons:
- More expensive than some other cat foods
This formula features high-quality sources of digestible animal proteins in chicken and salmon. These provide lean protein essential for energy production and muscle growth.
In addition to being an excellent source of protein, salmon also contains high levels of healthy fats. These omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are essential for cats with no teeth, as they help support healthy skin and coat.
The pate-style texture makes it easy for cats with dental issues to eat. Plus, it has no grain, corn, wheat, or soy, which can be harder for cats to digest.
It is also packed with essential vitamins and minerals to ensure a balanced diet for cats of all ages. Moreover, a high moisture content of 78% helps cats stay hydrated and encourages healthy digestion.
The natural flavor of this food will make your cat come running when it’s mealtime. Unfortunately, some cat parents complained this food is more expensive than other options.
Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Adult Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 6% Crude Fat, 2% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 46 Kcals/serving
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Natural Flavor, Brown Rice
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Food Texture: Pate
Key Feature: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Natural
Pros:
- Real chicken is the first ingredient
- Contains highly digestible carbohydrates
- Built-in divider to easily serve and reduce mess
- Promotes shiny skin and coat
Cons:
- Not grain free
- Pate may be too dry
This cat food contains real chicken as the first ingredient, providing cats with essential proteins and amino acids. It also has a variety of other ingredients, such as chicken liver and chicken broth to further boost the protein content and flavor.
It is not a grain-free formula but contains highly digestible carbohydrates like brown rice and sweet potatoes. In addition to providing calories for energy, these carbs also help support healthy digestion.
This formula promotes skin and coat health thanks to fatty acids like Omega-3 from fish oil. It also has essential vitamins and minerals to support your cat’s overall health.
Cat parents appreciate that this food includes a built-in divider to easily serve and reduce mess. However, some complained the pate was too dry and needs to be mixed with a bit of water or broth.
Weruva Cats Grain-Free Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 1.6% Crude Fat, 0.5% Crude Fiber, 87% Moisture
Caloric Content: 172 kcal/10 oz can
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Tuna, Pumpkin, Sunflower Seed Oil
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Food Texture: Bits in Broth
Key Feature: Grain-Free, Gluten Free, Pea-Free, Non-GMO, Natural, Premium
Pros:
- High-quality animal proteins from chicken and tuna
- Grain-free formula
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Supports shiny coat and skin
- Different flavors available
Cons:
- Pricey
- Inconsistent texture
This wet cat food contains several lean animal proteins from chicken and tuna. These help provide cats with energy and build their muscles.
Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help support a healthy coat and skin. In addition, pumpkin can help keep your cat’s digestive system functioning correctly.
This food has a unique texture of bits in broth that cats with no teeth can eat without any issues. Plus, it is grain-free, making it easier to digest.
Cat parents love this food as it provides a complete and balanced diet for their fur babies. It can also be used as a kibble topper or mixed with dry food to make it more appealing to cats with bad teeth.
However, some complained that the texture is sometimes inconsistent and pricey.
Fancy Feast Variety Pack Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 11% Crude Protein, 4% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 92 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Meat Broth, Liver, Fish, Meat By-Products
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Food Texture: Pate
Key Feature: N/A
Pros:
- Premium quality animal proteins
- Added vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet
- Finely ground and smooth pate texture
- Quite affordable
Cons:
- Contains meat by-products and artificial flavors
This variety pack from Fancy Feast contains high-quality animal proteins such as beef, liver, and fish for optimal energy production.
The pate-style texture is finely ground and smooth, making it easy for cats with few teeth to eat. Plus, it has added vitamins and minerals for a complete balanced diet.
Taurine is included in all their recipes to support healthy eyesight and a strong heart in cats. It’s quite affordable and comes in a variety of flavors, so your cat can enjoy different flavors in each meal.
The only downside is that it contains meat by-products and artificial flavors, which may not be ideal for some cats.
Royal Canin Aging 12+ Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 9% Crude Protein, 2.5% Crude Fat, 1.8% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
Caloric Content: 71 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Water Sufficient For Processing, Pork By-Products, Pork Liver, Chicken, Chicken Liver
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Life Stage: Senior
Food Texture: Chunks in Gravy
Key Feature: N/A
Pros:
- Highly digestible proteins from chicken and chicken liver
- Formulated for senior cats aged 12 and older
- Thin slice in gravy is easier for cats to eat
- Helps maintain healthy joints
- Supports kidney health
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet
Cons:
- Inconsistent texture and amount of gravy
This wet cat food is for cats aged 12 and older. It contains thin slices in gravy that are soft and easier for senior cats with sensitive teeth to eat.
With highly digestible proteins from chicken and chicken liver, this recipe provides lean protein for energy production and muscle growth.
It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which help maintain healthy cartilage as cats age. Glucosamine and chondroitin help reduce joint inflammation and pain by limiting the breakdown of joint cartilage.
With controlled phosphorus levels, it helps support healthy kidney function in senior cats. In addition, it also contains essential vitamins and minerals to ensure your senior cat gets a balanced diet each day.
Fish oil and other healthy fats are included in this food, providing your cat with essential omega-3 and 6 fatty acids. These help maintain healthy skin and coat, as well as support the immune system.
Unfortunately, some cat parents noted that the texture and amount of gravy can vary from can to can.
Tiki Cat Velvet Mousse Variety Pack Wet Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 14% Crude Protein, 2% Crude Fat, 1% Crude Fiber, 80% Moisture
Caloric Content: 82 kcal/pouch
First 5 Ingredients: Tuna Broth, Tuna, Mackerel, Dried Egg, Sunflower Oil, Tricalcium Phosphate
Type of Product: Wet cat food, Treats
Life Stage: Adult
Food Texture: Pate
Key Feature: Grain-Free, High-Protein, Pea-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Natural, Non-GMO, Premium
Pros:
- Grain-free formula
- High moisture content helps keep cats hydrated
- Protein-packed recipes
- Complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages
Cons:
- The packaging can be difficult and messy to open
If you have a picky cat, this variety pack is the perfect way to introduce new flavors and textures to see which one your cat likes best.
It contains six flavors: tuna & mackerel, chicken & salmon, salmon, chicken, chicken & egg, tuna & chicken. With these delicious flavors, your cat will run to the bowl every mealtime.
This protein-packed wet food is also great for cats of all sizes and life stages, providing them with the essential amino acids they need for muscle growth.
The pate texture is soft and easy for cats with no teeth to eat. Plus, it is grain-free, making it easier to digest.
Cat parents love that this food can also be used as a topper or treat. However, the package is difficult and messy to open, leading to some waste.
Sheba Perfect Portions Adult Wet Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 7% Crude Protein, 2.5% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 84% Moisture
Caloric Content: 38 kcal/serving
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Water, White Fish, Poultry Liver, Chicken Broth
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Food Texture: Pate
Key Feature: Gluten Free, Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Pea-Free
Pros:
- Grain and gluten-free
- Easy-to-use trays
- Delicious natural flavor and pate texture that cats love
Cons:
- The containers can be very hard to open
This food comes in convenient portion-controlled trays that make it easy to feed your cat the right amount and prevent food waste. It is also gluten and grain-free, making it easy to digest.
The pate-style texture is soft and easy for cats with no teeth to eat, while high-quality animal proteins like chicken, white fish, and poultry liver help provide lean proteins for muscle maintenance.
It also contains essential vitamins and minerals to ensure a balanced diet. Plus, the natural flavor cats love makes it all the more appealing.
The only downside is that some cat parents struggled to get the food out of the trays as they can be hard to open.
Purina Beyond Canned Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 9% Crude Protein, 2% Crude Fat, 1.2% Crude Fiber, 82% Moisture
Caloric Content: 69 kcal/can
First 5 Ingredients: Tuna and Cod Broth, Tuna, Chicken, Wheat Gluten, Liver
Type of Product: Wet cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Food Texture: Chunks in Gravy
Key Feature: High-Protein, Sensitive Digestion
Pros:
- High in protein from high-quality sources
- Soft chunks in gravy
- Fortified with vitamins and minerals to support overall health
- Grain-free recipe
Cons:
- The size of the chunks may not be suitable for toothless cats
This wet cat food from Purina Beyond contains high-quality animal proteins, including tuna and chicken, providing lean protein for energy production and muscle growth.
It also includes carrot, which is high in essential vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it has no grain, making it easier to digest for cats with grain sensitivities.
The soft chunks in gravy make it easy for cats with no teeth to eat, but some cat parents reported that the chunks can be too big for cats with severe tooth loss. However, blending the food chunks can make it easier in such cases.
Best Dry Cat Food For Cats With No Teeth Reviewed
Cats with no teeth can still eat dry food. These toothless kitties can enjoy dry foods that are soft and small enough for them to eat.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Oral Care Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 29% Crude Protein, 17.5% Crude Fat, 10% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 331 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Brown Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Powdered Cellulose
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: With Grain
Pros:
- A high-quality source of protein from real chicken
- Enhances dental health and fights bad breath
- Contains antioxidants for a healthy immune system
- Packed with essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet
Cons:
- Large kibble size
This dry food is formulated for adult cats with oral health issues. It contains natural ingredients that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
The crunchy texture of the kibbles helps to clean and freshen your cat’s breath. The primary source of protein is chicken, which provides lean and healthy proteins for energy production and muscle growth.
Additionally, this formula contains natural antioxidants to help support your cat’s immune system. It also includes a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals from carrots and cranberries to ensure a complete diet.
Cranberries are incredibly beneficial, as they help support urinary tract health in cats. Many cat parents report satisfactory results with this food just after a week of feeding their kitties with gum disease.
However, with the large kibble size, you may need to break up the pieces or soften them with warm water for a toothless cat.
Purina ONE Tender Selects Dry Cat Food
Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 2% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
Caloric Content: 366 kcal/cup
First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Rice Flour, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols
Type of Product: Dry cat food
Life Stage: Adult
Key Feature: Indoor, Natural, With Grain
Pros:
- High-quality proteins from chicken as first ingredient
- Formulated with natural ingredients for optimal nutrition
- Contains omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat
- Crunchy bites and meaty morsels make it enjoyable to eat
Cons:
- Inconsistent texture
Purina ONE Tender Selects utilizes high-quality proteins from chicken as the first ingredient. This makes it an excellent source of lean muscle-building proteins.
It also contains omega-6 fatty acids, which will help nourish your cat’s skin and coat. The crunchy bites and meaty morsels provide a flavorful and enjoyable eating experience.
This brand contains all natural ingredients safe for cats with dental issues and provides optimal nutrition.
The added vitamin E contributes to a healthy immune system, while vitamin A and taurine help maintain eye health.
Unfortunately, inconsistency in textures can be a problem, with some bags very crumbly, almost dust-like.
Guide to Buying Cat Food For Cats With No or Few Teeth
Finding the perfect cat food for cats with no teeth can be challenging. Here are a few things to consider when selecting their daily meals.
Soft Texture
Toothless cats need food that is soft and easy to eat. Wet foods are usually a great choice, but if your kitty prefers dry food, look for a formula with smaller kibbles. You can break large-sized kibble into smaller pieces using a food processor.
You may also want to add warm water or even gravy to dry food to make it softer and easier for your pet. Generally, gravy-based foods, pate-style foods, terrines, soups, and finely shredded meat are great for cats with no teeth.
Senior-Specific Formulas
Senior cats with dental issues can benefit from specially formulated foods that contain easily digestible ingredients. These formulas are best for senior cats with bad teeth or periodontal disease because they contain more water and calcium to help rebuild the teeth and bones.
High-Quality Nutrients
If your cat has no teeth, feeding them a balanced diet full of all the necessary vitamins and minerals is even more important. The food should include premium high-quality animal proteins, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, taurine, and other supplements to ensure your furry friend stays healthy.
Irresistible Taste
Cats with no teeth need food that smells and tastes great, so they will be more likely to eat it. Add wet food to dry kibble to make it palatable, or look for foods with natural flavorings like chicken broth.
High Moisture Content
Moisture is essential for all cats. Wet foods are usually higher in moisture than dry food, and they can help keep your cat hydrated while making it soft.
Why do Cats Lose their Teeth?
Cats can lose their teeth for a variety of reasons. Kittens lose them to get their adult teeth, but tooth loss in adult or senior cats is often the result of periodontal disease, which leads to inflammation and infection that can cause tooth decay and eventual loss. But other causes of tooth loss in cats include gingivitis and tooth resorption.
Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease occurs when plaque builds up and causes inflammation of the gums. Left untreated, this can eventually lead to tooth loss. It’s essential to monitor their dental health and look out for any signs of periodontal disease, such as
- Bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Difficulty eating
- Blood in saliva
Gingivitis: Unlike periodontal disease, gingivitis is characterized by intense discomfort and pain, often leading to tooth loss. The signs and symptoms of gingivitis are similar to those of periodontal disease.
Tooth resorption: This is a condition where the cat’s body begins to break down and reabsorb their teeth. This is usually seen in older cats and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The origin of tooth resorption remains unknown.
Common signs to look out for include drooling, pawing at the mouth, and refusal to eat or drink.
Signs that your Cat is Suffering from Dental Issues
Cats are not always vocal about illness but will often show some visible signs when they are in pain due to a dental issue.
Common signs include:
- Bad breath
- Tooth loss
- Tooth discoloration
- Difficulty eating or drinking
- Drooling
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums in severe cases
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Pawing at the mouth
If you notice any of these signs, visit your vet as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Caring for your Cat’s Teeth
Cats need healthy teeth and gums to eat and drink. Without them, they can become malnourished due to an inability to eat or consume enough water. By caring for your cat’s teeth, you can help protect them from dental issues and keep them healthy.
Brush your cat’s teeth: Brushing your cat’s teeth regularly will help reduce plaque buildup and prevent periodontal disease. Use a toothbrush specifically designed for cats, and use pet-safe toothpaste. We recommend Petrodex dental care kit as most cats love the malt flavor. Do not use human toothpaste, as this can be toxic for cats.
Introducing a kitten to a dental hygiene routine early is much easier than with an adult cat, but this will take time, so be patient. Adult cats may need more time to get used to the routine.
Use other dental products: If your cat isn’t willing to let you brush their teeth, other dental products can help. Dental chews, gels, and treats can help clean the teeth and freshen their breath. We recommend checking with your veterinarian before giving any product to your cat with dental issues.
Regular vet checkups: Regular visits to the vet for dental checkups and cleanings can help keep your cat’s teeth healthy and strong. Your vet will be able to spot any potential issues or diseases early on before they become more serious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Periodontal Disease Kill My Cat?
No, periodontal disease in cats is not generally considered fatal. However, if left untreated, it can cause significant discomfort and lead to other complications. When severe, bacteria from the infected gums may enter a cat’s bloodstream, resulting in heart, liver, and kidney damage.
What Can I Feed My Old Cat With Bad Teeth?
When your feline’s teeth are in a terrible state, providing them with super-hard kibble is not wise. Instead, turn to more tooth-friendly choices like fresh or wet foods that won’t worsen the issue.
Take your kitty to the vet to ensure their teeth are properly examined and treated.
Can Cats Eat Dry Cat Food Without Teeth?
Yes, cats with no teeth can still eat dry cat food. However, you’ll need to soften the food with water, broth, or gravy to make it easier for them to chew.
Is it Normal for a Cat to Lose Its Teeth?
Yes, it is normal for cats to lose their teeth as they age. Kittens have 26 baby teeth which will eventually fall out and be replaced by their adult teeth, usually around 3-7 months. In older cats, the permanent teeth may begin to loosen or get worn down due to wear and tear.
However, It is not normal for cats to lose teeth due to dental disease or poor oral hygiene. If your cat loses teeth due to dental disease or poor oral hygiene, take them to the vet for a checkup as soon as possible.
What can I Feed my Cat with Sensitive Teeth?
Cats with sensitive teeth eat a similar diet to cats with no or few teeth. For your kitty’s health and well-being, softer foods, fresh or homemade food, are much better than hard kibble.
You should consult with your veterinarian to see if your cat’s sensitive tooth is not a sign of periodontal disease or a more serious dental issue.
What does it Mean if my Cat’s Losing Teeth?
If your cat’s teeth start to loosen or fall out, it could mean your pet suffers from dental disease or poor oral hygiene. It is best to take them for a vet check-up as soon as possible.
Final Verdict
Cats with no teeth can still live a happy and healthy life. There are many food options for cats with no teeth, including wet foods, dry foods, and even homemade recipes.
We have listed our top picks for the best cat food for cats with no teeth that contain all the essential nutrients your pet needs.
Our favorite is I and Love and You Grain-Free Canned Cat Food. Cat parents can effortlessly source this food in different flavors to meet their feline’s needs.
If you need specific ingredients, texture, or flavor for your toothless cat, the other options in the list may be best. No matter what you decide, all the food options we listed are best for cats with no teeth.