Help, My Cat’s Breath Smells!

February 5th, 2024

If you are a cat parent, you know the feeling of having your furry companion nuzzle and purr with content. And then the dreaded moment comes when you’re greeted with a whiff of stinky breath. While an occasional brush with unpleasant cat breath is no cause for alarm, persistent bad breath is not just a nuisance – it can be a sign of an underlying health concern.

Oral Health Causes of Bad Breath

Did you know that most cats develop some form of dental disease by age 3? Plaque buildup, gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections are not just human problems – they can impact our feline companions, often leading to persistent bad breath. Left untreated, oral health problems can affect your cat’s overall health, which is why it’s so important to keep up with routine dental check-ups.

Oral exams typically occur during your feline companion’s annual wellness visits. They allow us to diagnose and treat any problems in their earliest stages, preventing them from progressing and allowing your cat to enjoy fresher, healthier breath.

If you notice any signs of cat dental health problems between wellness visits, don’t wait. Contact All About Cats Veterinary Hospital to schedule a consultation. Signs your furry companion may be battling an oral health issue may include bad breath, red or swollen gums, drooling, pawing at the mouth, behavioral changes, difficulty eating, or avoiding food altogether. The sooner we identify and address the causes of your pet’s symptoms, the better the outcomes.

Other Causes of Bad Breath in Cats

While bad breath in cats usually stems from dental health conditions, it can sometimes signal a serious health condition like diabetes, kidney disease, liver problems, or even cancer. That’s why it’s important to have a cat with persistent bad breath evaluated. Treating health problems as early as possible can prevent minor issues from becoming more serious ones down the road.

Aside from your cat’s health, diet can cause bad breath. The saying, “You are what you eat,” holds true for cats just as it does for humans. Certain foods can lead to foul breath, and some may not agree with your feline friend. Our dedicated veterinarians at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital may recommend diet adjustments to relieve stinky breath and help your feline friend thrive.

At-Home Oral Care Practices for Your Cat

Prevention is always better than cure. Just like humans, cats benefit from regular dental care. Once your cat is acclimated to brushing, we recommend brushing your cat’s teeth three times weekly with cat-specific toothpaste. The earlier you start, the more cooperative your paw-some pal will be. Remember to reward your kitty when done.

If your cat resists brushing, you may want to consider using liquid or foam mouth cleaners. You can also find various dental chews or treats to help remove plaque and prevent it from hardening to tartar. If at any point, you or your kitty feels uncomfortable with this process, discontinue and call us for further advice or instructions. Our compassionate team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital is happy to offer tips on home oral hygiene and caring for your cat’s teeth and gums.

Cat Dental Health Care Near Me in Kirkland, WA

At All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, we emphasize the importance of caring for your cat’s dental health. If your feline companion has bad breath or other signs of oral health problems, we are here for you. You can always count on our dedicated team for purr-fectly compassionate care because, after all, we are all about cats!