How Many Teeth Do Rabbits Have?
An adult rabbit normally has 28 teeth.
Only the front incisors are easy to see. Most rabbit teeth are cheek teeth farther back in the mouth, and all of them grow continuously throughout life.
The Rabbit Dental Formula in Plain Language
Rabbits have four large incisors, two small peg teeth behind the upper incisors, and 22 premolars and molars. They do not have canine teeth, leaving a natural gap called a diastema between the incisors and cheek teeth.
Why Hay Is Essential for Tooth Wear
Long strands of grass hay encourage repeated side-to-side chewing. That movement supports natural wear of both visible incisors and hidden cheek teeth while also maintaining digestive health.
Why This Detail Matters
Upper incisors include peg teeth
Signs of Dental Trouble
Selective eating, dropping food, wet chin, reduced hay intake, weight loss, smaller droppings, eye discharge, facial swelling, or tooth grinding can indicate dental disease. Most cheek-tooth problems cannot be evaluated fully at home.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Total adult teeth: 28
- Upper incisors include peg teeth
- No canine teeth
- All teeth grow continuously
Frequently Asked Questions
Do baby rabbits lose their teeth?
Young rabbits develop and replace early teeth quickly, usually before owners notice. Adult teeth then continue growing.
Can I trim overgrown teeth at home?
No. Clipping can fracture teeth and does not address cheek teeth or roots. Veterinary dental treatment is required.
Does chewing wood keep teeth short?
Safe chewing adds enrichment, but grass hay provides the prolonged grinding motion most important for normal wear.