Understanding Feline Halitosis: Causes and Solutions

What's up? Can cats even have dental issues?

Of course, they can! Who wouldn't appreciate a freshbreathed feline? Oh, wait, I meant a "freshbreathed little kitten"!

Cats are different from dogs; dogs tend to show off their big, white teeth more frequently with wide smiles, as it's easier to see with a larger mouth. Cats, on the other hand, don't open their mouths to breathe as often, which is why many owners might overlook their dental problems.

Remember, absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.

The simplest sign is bad breath. After all, who wouldn't be startled by the "toxic fumes" during a snuggle session with your cat? Other signs include visible tartar, calculus, plaque, and gingivitis...

So, what causes this unpleasant breath?

Food Residue

Unlike humans who brush their teeth twice a day, cats only get a brush when their owners remember. Some cats are even uncooperative, leading to food particles easily getting trapped in the mouth. Over time, these particles accumulate and ferment between the teeth, resulting in an unpleasant odor.

Calcium Deposits

Cats have smaller teeth, so calcium deposits may not be as noticeable as in dogs. However, they are still present. Food residue and other particles often adhere to the space between the teeth and gums, and over time, these deposits harden, leading to gingivitis, periodontal atrophy, and other dental issues.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Gingivitis and periodontitis are among the most common causes of bad breath. These diseases are usually caused by bacteria in the plaque that invade the periodontal tissues, leading to infection and inflammation, which results in an unpleasant smell.

Transmissible Diseases

For example, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline calicivirus (FCV). Cats with these diseases often have stomatitis, which can be painful and affect their eating if not treated with medication.

Stray Cat: Benny (FIV infected)

Oral Tumors

Especially malignant tumors, as they grow and invade, the affected tissue undergoes changes, necrosis, and suppuration, leading to infections and a foul odor.

Since the tumor photos are too graphic, we won't be showing them.

Diabetes

Many might be surprised to learn that cats can also have diabetes. Yes, most diseases that affect humans can also affect cats.

Cats with diabetes may have a strange odor in their breath, resembling rotten apples, due to the accumulation of large amounts of ketones in their bodies.

And as we all know, diabetes suppresses the immune system, making it easier for bacteria to thrive in the mouth, leading to periodontal disease.

Foreign Objects in the Mouth

When a cat swallows a branch, bone, or other foreign objects and they get stuck in the teeth, and the owner doesn't notice, these objects can cause ulcers in the mouth or gradually rot, leading to an unpleasant smell. Some foods with a strong odor can also make the mouth smell worse.

Bad breath can affect more than just "kissing," but it can also be a sign of health issues.

When cats exhibit certain symptoms or behaviors, it's important to seek veterinary treatment promptly:

1. Swollen gums

2. Excessive drooling

3. Frequent scratching of the face

4. Difficulty chewing

5. Loss of appetite and rapid weight loss

6. Calculus on the teeth

These can be signs of underlying diseases. If any of these symptoms are present or if something seems off, contact a veterinarian immediately.

In the vet's office, the vet will first gather information about the cat's general health, perform a basic physical examination, and then conduct an oral examination to assess calculus and gingivitis.

Young cats usually don't have calculus issues, and if they are generally healthy, bad breath might be due to dietary issues, gastrointestinal problems, or foreign objects in the mouth.

Adult cats, usually around two to three years old, often have some calculus buildup, so don't forget that calculus is also a significant cause of bad breath. Older cats often have calculus, alveolar atrophy, and tooth loss.

After the initial examination, basic laboratory tests will be conducted to further assess the pet's actual condition.

This usually includes blood tests: serum amyloid A (SAA), complete blood count, and sometimes additional tests like biochemical tests, blood gas tests, and blood sugar and urine tests.

When dealing with jawbone issues or tooth extraction, Xrays (dental radiographs) may be necessary.

Oral inflammation caused by viral infections can also present as stomatitis, so if viral infection is suspected, tests such as PCR for viruses, and test strips for antigens and antibodies in the serum, can be performed.

So, depending on the situation, different tests may be needed.

Now, let's talk about prevention and treatment. The first step is to determine the cause of the bad breath and then proceed with appropriate treatment. This includes daily care, medication, and surgical treatment.

In daily management, it's important to pay attention to dietary management, ensuring that the cat receives adequate nutrition each day. Encourage your cat to drink more water, which can help maintain urinary tract health and assist in cleaning the mouth. Avoid allowing cats to chew on foreign objects like strings, needles, or plastic bags, and promptly clean up these items to prevent accidents.

Regular dental cleanings at the vet can also be beneficial, although they can remove existing calculus, they don't prevent new calculus from forming. If proper care isn't maintained, calculus and plaque will continue to form.

For symptoms like red, swollen roots, ulcers, or suppuration, medication may be necessary, including antibiotics to control infections and rinsing the mouth with medication.

For stomatitis caused by viruses, fullmouth extraction may be recommended, followed by pain management and treatment with antibiotics and antiviral medications.

Chronic diseases that cause bad breath are related to the body's metabolism, so ongoing medication is essential.

After all, to keep your cat's breath fresh isn't a onetime fix; it's about daily maintenance and consistency.

Cats that can tolerate brushing can use petspecific toothpaste and toothbrushes, choosing flavors that cats like (different cats have individual preferences). Smallheaded brushes are recommended, as cats have very small teeth, and finger brushes can also be considered.

When brushing, try to do it when the cat is calm, which makes it easier to control and establish a habit. After brushing, you can reward your cat with a small treat to soothe any restlessness.

Cats that can't stand brushing can be given mouthwash, which can be added to their water according to the recommended ratio.

However, some cats are very sensitive to water, and adding mouthwash might make them reluctant to drink. If this happens, you may need to consider other methods, as lack of water can lead to urinary tract problems.

When brushing and rinsing aren't options, you can consider dental powder, which can be added to dry food so that the cat ingests it while eating. It's not recommended to mix it with wet food or canned food, as it could affect the powder's adhesion.

And of course, many feline viral infections can persist for life after infection, so they can have a significant impact on the mouth. The best approach is to get regular vaccinations.

In the end, with a bit of attention to detail, many problems can be avoided to a great extent.