Have you noticed a fishy smell coming from your cat's mouth recently? While it's common for cats and dogs to have bad breath, it's not necessarily a healthy or normal condition. In this article, our veterinarians in Pittsboro will discuss the reasons why your cat's breath might smell bad and the possible treatments to address the issue.
Reasons Why Your Cat's Breath Smells Bad
Although bad breath is commonly associated with dogs, cats can also suffer from this condition. Cats' reasons for bad breath can vary, ranging from poor eating habits to dental issues and even more severe medical conditions.
Therefore, it's crucial to take your feline friend to a veterinarian for a dental health check-up to identify the underlying cause of their bad breath.
Oral Hygiene & Dental Disease in Cats
Improper oral hygiene can lead to the accumulation of tartar and plaque on the teeth, eventually resulting in dental disease. A common symptom of dental disease in cats is bad breath, caused by the buildup of bacteria in their mouths.
If your cat experiences any additional symptoms along with bad breath, such as swollen gums, difficulty eating, or loose teeth, they may suffer from a dental disease.
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Redness of the mouth and gums
- Behavioral changes
- Inability to eat or lack of appetite
A dental disease can only be diagnosed by bringing your cat in to have your vet perform an oral exam. If you notice any of the above symptoms in your feline friend, contact your vet for an appointment right away.
Other Conditions That May Cause Bad Breath in Cats
Other bodily conditions can cause bad breath and also symptoms of oral disease.
These other conditions 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 check-up if it is ongoing.
How To Get Rid of Cat Bad Breath at Home
If you notice your cat having bad breath, it's essential to find and treat the root cause. The most effective way to prevent tooth decay in cats is by regularly brushing their teeth. You may use a special toothbrush to make the process easier for your cat.
If your cat initially resists, you could try using your finger to brush their teeth until they're comfortable with it. With time, it'll become easier as you keep up with the practice of brushing your cat's teeth at least twice a day.
It's also highly recommended that you take your cat for dental check-ups and routine cleaning at least once a year. This will help remove any hard-to-reach plaque and tartar and enable early detection of potential dental problems.
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.