Cats' Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions Explained

One: Why Are Cat Lovers So Obsessed?

It all starts with the mysterious scent of cats. Some cat owners claim that the smell of their feline companions is reminiscent of freshly baked bread, while others describe it as the warmth of sunlight, or even the aroma of popped popcorn. However, pinpointing the exact scent is nearly impossible, as it varies from cat to cat.

But what if, for cat lovers, the scent of their beloved pet suddenly turns unpleasant, or during a tender moment, the cat opens its mouth wide to unleash a "biochemical attack"? Don't worry, the Pet Doctor is here to save the day! Curious cat lovers, follow along to find out why this happens.

Two: Why Do Cats Have Bad Breath, or Even a Stinky Body?

Let's start by explaining why cats might develop bad breath, which can lead to an overall unpleasant smell.

Cats are incredibly clean creatures, and after eating and sleeping, grooming is a constant activity. Maintaining clean and fresh fur is a top priority for every kitten, and it's also one of the reasons why cat owners are so drawn to their pets.

For cats that love to groom themselves, if their mouth has an issue and emits an unpleasant odor, the fur they lick will also become smelly.

Three: What Causes a Cat's Bad Breath?

1. Diet Issues.

As the saying goes, "Illness comes from the mouth." Therefore, the cause of a cat's bad breath could be related to its diet. Feeding cats heavy seafood or canned food can lead to bad breath, but this type of bad breath is usually temporary and not something to worry about too much.

2. Tartar and Plaque.

Saliva and food particles on the surface of a cat's teeth are a breeding ground for bacteria. If a cat's teeth and mouth are not regularly cleaned, tartar and plaque can accumulate over time, much like in humans, leading to an unpleasant odor if not addressed.

3. Gingivitis, Stomatitis, and Other Oral Inflammations.

Cats can develop oral inflammation, usually caused by bacterial infections within the mouth. When a cat has a wound in its mouth that becomes infected, inflammation can occur. For example, gingivitis, which often presents with red, swollen gums and is more common in the back teeth, can be a sign of infection.

4. Digestive Issues.

Bad breath caused by digestion problems can be due to a cat's poor digestive abilities. If a cat eats too much or too quickly and doesn't have enough digestive enzymes and beneficial bacteria to break down food, it can lead to bad breath, as well as constipation or diarrhea.

5. Symptoms Accompanying Bad Breath.

The causes of a cat's bad breath can be diverse. Often, cat owners can identify the cause of bad breath by looking at other symptoms. For instance, if a cat's bad breath is accompanied by unusual urine smell, it could be a sign of kidney problems.

Four: How to Solve a Cat's Bad Breath Problem?

1. Rule Out Disease Causes: If the issue is not a medical condition, it might be related to the cat's diet. Switching to healthier, higherquality cat food can help.

2. Treat Oral Inflammation: For cats with oral inflammation, effective antibiotics and antiinflammatory medications can be used to eliminate the bad breath.

3. Make Brushing a Habit: Regularly brushing your cat's teeth can become a daily routine. Consistency is key to helping your cat develop a habit of good oral hygiene.

4. Use Probiotics for Digestive Issues: For bad breath caused by poor digestion, probiotics can help regulate the cat's gut flora and ensure a healthy digestive system.

5. Regular Checkups: Regular dental checkups are essential to maintain your cat's oral health. Regular checkups can help identify any dental issues early and allow for necessary care.