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. Most of the time this condition can be linked to dental concerns, but that is not always the case. Today, our Oak Grove vets talk about some of the reasons for your cat's bad breath and what you can do to help treat this smelly condition.
Reasons Why Your Cat Has Bad Breath
While we typically associate bad breath with dogs, it can also affect cats. Cat bad breath can be caused by a variety of factors, including eating habits, dental issues, 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
While we always strive to provide the best care for our feline companions, we occasionally forget to consider their oral hygiene. Unfortunately, the majority of cats then develop some form of dental disease by the age of three.
Every time a cat eats, it exposes its teeth to food particles and bacteria, which can cause a variety of dental problems. This bacteria must be removed daily or it will harden into tartar due to the minerals found in the cat's saliva.
Tartar can cause gum recession in cats, resulting in teeth falling out. All of these things can cause your cat to be in pain and have very bad breath.
Other Conditions That May Cause Bad Breath in Cats
While dental problems are the most common cause of bad breath in cats, it’s not always the case. Bad breath can be caused by more serious conditions in your cat's body.
These other conditions will produce symptoms that are very similar to those seen with oral concerns, so bring your feline friend in for an examination as soon as possible.
Other conditions that may cause your cat's bad breath include:
- Ulcers and sores
- Kidney disease
- Abscess or infection
- Poor oral hygiene
- Teething
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Diet
- Infections
- Cancer
If your cat has bad breath, especially if it is persistent, it is always advised to bring them in for a checkup due to the variety of possible conditions that can cause it.
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath in Cats
Treatment for bad breath in cats begins by preventing plaque and tartar buildup. Start brushing your cat’s teeth when they are young to get them used to it. You can use a special toothbrush designed for cats or use your finger until they get used to it. Aim to brush their teeth at least twice a week. It may get easier with practice.
Additionally, it's recommended that you take your cat for a dental checkup and routine cleaning at least once a year to remove any hard-to-reach plaque and tartar and detect potential dental problems early.
If your cat's bad breath is being caused by something other than dental diseases, then treatment will depend on the underlying condition. For example, if your cat has gastrointestinal issues causing bad breath, your veterinarian may recommend a change in diet or medication to address the root cause.
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.