As most cat parents know, our feline friends enjoy getting up close and personal. This is especially true first thing in the morning, and there's nothing quite like waking up to stinky cat breath. This condition can usually be linked to dental concerns, but that is not always true. Our Goleta vets discuss why your cat may have bad breath and what you can do to help treat this smelly condition.
Reasons Why Your Cat's Breath Smells Bad
While we may commonly associate bad breath in pets with dogs, it can also affect cats. There are many reasons why a cat's breath may smell bad, ranging from plain old bad breath from eating to dental concerns and other more serious conditions.
This makes it all the more important to bring your feline friend in for a dental health checkup with their veterinarian to determine the cause of this smelly condition.
Oral Hygiene & Dental Disease in Cats
When caring for our cats, it's important not to overlook their dental hygiene. Unfortunately, many cats develop dental disease by age 3, largely due to the accumulation of food particles and bacteria on their teeth after eating.
If not removed daily, this bacteria can harden into tartar, causing dental issues and heart and kidney disease. Tartar buildup is also a common cause of gum recession and tooth loss in cats, resulting in discomfort and bad breath.
Some common symptoms of these conditions may include:
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Redness of the mouth and gums
- Behavioral changes
- Inability to eat or lack of appetite
The only way to diagnose and treat these conditions accurately is to bring your cat to your veterinarian for an oral examination. Your cat's treatment will depend on its condition, but some possible treatment options may include dental cleanings, tooth extractions, antibiotics, and potential dietary changes.
Other Conditions That May Cause Bad Breath in Cats
While dental conditions may most frequently cause bad breath in cats, these will not always be the cause. There is a chance that this condition can be caused by other more serious conditions within your cat's body.
These other conditions cause symptoms similar to those experienced by oral concerns, so it is important to ensure that you bring your feline friend in for an examination as soon as possible.
These other conditions that may cause bad breath in your cat include:
- Ulcers and sores
- Kidney disease
- Abscess or infection
- Poor oral hygiene
- Teething
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Diet
- Infections
- Cancer
Due to the wide range of potential conditions that can cause bad breath, you should always bring your cat in for a checkup if it is ongoing.
How to Get Rid of Cat Bad Breath
Addressing the underlying cause of your cat's bad breath is crucial for effective treatment. Here are some steps to help improve your cat’s breath:
- Brush your cat's teeth regularly using a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Regular dental checkups with your veterinarian are also essential.
- Feed your cat a balanced diet and consider incorporating dental health treats to reduce plaque and tartar.
- Ensure your cat drinks plenty of water to help wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth.
- Schedule professional dental cleanings with your veterinarian to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Regularly inspect your cat’s mouth for any foreign objects causing bad breath.
- If systemic diseases or infections are causing bad breath, work with your veterinarian to treat these conditions appropriately.
When to See a Vet
If your cat’s bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene practices, or if you notice other symptoms like drooling, difficulty eating, or behavioral changes, it’s time to see a veterinarian. Persistent bad breath can be a sign of severe health issues that require professional attention.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.