If your pet’s eyes are the windows to the soul, their breath may be the key to health and happiness.

Maybe we’re being a bit dramatic, but the truth is that the smell of your pet’s breath can give you a clue as to his or her overall health and wellness. Bad pet breath in both dogs and cats is not normal, and can signal more serious health concerns.

What Causes Bad Breath In Pets?

There are a variety of potential reasons why a pet may wind up with bad breath, including:

Dental disease – After age 3, up to 80% of cats and dogs will show signs of periodontal disease, an infection of the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. This, along with other forms of oral disease such as stomatitis and oral cancers, is by far the most common cause of bad breath in pets.

Gastrointestinal disorders – Any disease or illness of the stomach, esophagus, or intestines has the potential to create foul breath.

Respiratory problems – Inflammation of the nasal passageways can contribute to bad breath.

Metabolic diseases – Sour smelling breath can result as toxins build in the blood from kidney disease, untreated diabetes mellitus and other metabolic disorders.

Dietary issues – Dogs or cats that have taken to eating feces or other inappropriate foods can develop offensive breath.

Treatment For Bad Pet Breath

Since the main cause of offensive breath in pets is dental disease, keeping your best pal’s pearly whites clean and healthy is the number one thing you can do to prevent and treat this condition.

  • Bring your pet to the veterinarian for yearly oral exams and professional dental cleanings.
  • At home care is a must when it comes to good oral health. Brush your pet’s teeth at home on a regular basis with pet-specific toothpaste. Once per week lift your pet’s lips and examine the inside of his or her mouth for any broken or discolored teeth, gum swelling, lesions, etc.
  • Don’t skip your pet’s routine wellness visits! By seeing your pet on a regular basis, we can work to catch and treat any underlying health concerns that may be causing bad breath before they get out of hand.
  • Know your best pal’s health norms! If your pet’s behavior changes or you observe changes to the gums or skin, give us a call right away.

Your team at Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital is ready to help you with that odiferous doggy or kitty breath that you have come to know (and probably not love).

Call us with any questions or concerns, or to schedule your pet’s dental cleaning!