Q: Why do today’s cats need fangs?
A: Although domestic cats can potentially live without teeth (if fed the correct diet), they are still true carnivores, and given the opportunity, will hunt and kill small prey.
The canine teeth (fangs) are used to kill and shred the prey. They can also use these teeth to shred any large pieces of meat they get fed. When cats chew food they use a cutting rather than grinding action, and their sharp teeth are used for this purpose.
Cats also use their teeth for self-defence and will bite if threatened.
Dr Vanessa Mcclure, veterinarian
