Why does my cat’s breath smell so bad?
Let’s face it: cat breath isn’t known for smelling like roses. Bad breath in cats, also known as halitosis, is a common problem. While it might seem like just an unpleasant quirk, that foul odor could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Bad breath can signal poor oral hygiene or, in some cases, point to more serious systemic diseases. That’s why it’s important to pay attention if your cat’s breath smells worse than usual.
This article will explore the potential causes of bad breath in cats, what you can do to treat it, and how to prevent it in the first place. It’s also a good idea to talk with your vet, as they can help diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Causes of bad breath in cats: Oral issues
If your cat’s breath has started to smell a little ripe, it might be a sign of a problem in their mouth. Here are some common oral issues that can lead to bad breath in cats:
Poor oral hygiene and dental disease
Just like with humans, poor oral hygiene is a common culprit behind bad breath in cats. When your cat eats, plaque and tartar can start to build up on their teeth. This buildup creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to some pretty unpleasant odors.
If the plaque and tartar aren’t removed, they can cause gingivitis, which is simply inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis not only contributes to bad breath but can also progress to more severe periodontal disease if left untreated.
Periodontal disease is an advanced stage of gum disease that damages the tissues surrounding the teeth. This can cause significant bad breath, pain, and even tooth loss. In fact, the American Veterinary Dental College reports that periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats.
Stomatitis
Stomatitis is another oral issue that can cause bad breath in cats. It’s characterized by severe inflammation of the mouth, which can be incredibly painful for your feline friend. While the exact cause of stomatitis is often unknown, it can lead to intense pain and, you guessed it, bad breath.
Causes of Bad Breath in Cats: Systemic Diseases
If your cat’s breath suddenly smells bad, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition. Here are some systemic diseases that can affect your cat’s breath:
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is a common problem, especially in older cats. When the kidneys aren’t working properly, waste products can build up in the bloodstream. This build-up can cause your cat’s breath to smell like ammonia.
Diabetes
Diabetes can also cause changes in your cat’s breath. In some cases, diabetes can lead to a sweet or fruity odor on the breath, due to the presence of ketones. Other symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst and urination, as well as weight loss despite an increased appetite.
Liver Disease
Although it’s less common than kidney disease or diabetes, liver disease can sometimes cause bad breath in cats. If your cat’s liver isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to a build-up of toxins in the body, which can then affect the smell of your cat’s breath. If you suspect your cat may have liver disease, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.
What else could be causing my cat’s bad breath?
Lots of things can make your cat’s breath stink. Here are some common ones:
Dietary factors
Just like with humans, the food your cat eats can affect their breath. Wet food, for example, tends to stick to the teeth, which can cause bacteria to grow. Raw meat and rotting meat can also lead to halitosis.
Unusual eating habits
Does your cat eat things they shouldn’t? Two common conditions that cause cats to ingest unusual items are coprophagia (eating feces) and pica (eating non-food items). Both of these can introduce bacteria into your cat’s mouth, leading to bad breath.
Gastrointestinal issues
Sometimes, bad breath can be a sign of problems in the digestive system. If your cat’s bad breath is persistent and you’ve ruled out other causes, it’s worth talking to your vet about possible gastrointestinal issues.
What should I do if my cat’s breath smells bad?
If your cat’s breath smells funky, you need to take it to the vet to figure out what’s going on. Don’t just assume it’s “cat breath” and ignore it. Bad breath is often a sign of an underlying health problem.
When you take your cat to the vet, they will examine the mouth, teeth, and gums. They’ll also likely want to run some blood tests to rule out any systemic diseases. In some cases, dental X-rays may be necessary to assess the extent of any dental disease. The vet will be looking for any signs of infection, inflammation, or other abnormalities that could be causing the bad breath.
Treating and preventing bad breath in cats
If your cat’s breath is knocking you over, there are several ways to address the problem.
Professional veterinary dental cleaning
A professional veterinary dental cleaning usually involves putting the cat under anesthesia so the vet can thoroughly scale and polish the teeth. A deep cleaning like this can remove tartar buildup and prevent the progression of dental disease.
Home dental care
You can help keep your cat’s breath fresh and their teeth clean at home, too.
- Tooth brushing: You can brush your cat’s teeth using toothpaste that’s specifically formulated for cats. The trick is to start slowly and use positive reinforcement, like treats and praise.
- Dental treats and chews: Dental treats and chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Just know that some dental treats are more effective than others. Look for treats that have been approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
- Water additives: You can also add certain products to your cat’s water bowl to help reduce plaque and freshen their breath. Again, look for products that have been approved by the VOHC.
In Summary
If your cat’s breath smells bad, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible. The odor might be coming from an issue in their mouth, or it could be a sign of a systemic illness elsewhere in their body.
Regular professional veterinary care, coupled with at-home dental hygiene, are key to keeping your cat’s mouth healthy and preventing halitosis.
If you’re a cat owner, being proactive about your feline friend’s dental care is one of the best things you can do for their long-term health and well-being.