The causes and treatment of bad breath in cats

Reasons for bad breath in cats

1. Dietary issues:

Food residue: If a cat’s food residue stays in the gaps between its teeth for a long time, it will gradually decompose and produce a strange odor. Food types: Some cat food or meat may have a strong fishy smell and may also cause bad breath in cats.

Dietary habits: Long term consumption of soft or human food by cats can also easily lead to bad breath.

1. Oral problems:

Dental plaque and tartar: Long term failure to clean teeth can lead to the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar, causing bad breath.

Oral diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral ulcers can also lead to bad breath.

1. Digestive problems:

Gastrointestinal diseases such as gastroenteritis, gastric ulcers, and intestinal dysfunction can all cause bad breath.

Food indigestion: Some foods are difficult to digest and may also cause bad breath in cats.

1. Health issues:

Kidney failure: Kidney failure can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, causing bad breath.

Systemic diseases such as diabetes and leukemia: These diseases may also cause bad breath in cats.

The treatment of bad breath in cats

① Dietary adjustment:

Choose high-quality cat food suitable for cats to avoid excessive food residue.

Increase cats’ water intake to promote metabolism.

Control the diet of cats and avoid excessive feeding of meat or human food.

② Oral hygiene:

Regular brushing: Use a pet specific toothbrush and toothpaste to brush your cat’s teeth at least once a week.

Dental cleaning products: You can use dental cleaning sticks, dental snacks, and other auxiliary cleaning tools to clean your teeth.

Professional teeth cleaning: If dental calculus is severe, it is necessary to take the cat to a pet hospital for professional teeth cleaning.

③ Drug therapy:

For halitosis caused by oral diseases, antibiotics or other medications should be used under the guidance of a veterinarian for treatment.

For halitosis caused by digestive problems or systemic diseases, treatment should be targeted at the cause.

④ Other measures:

Supplementing vitamins: Properly supplementing cats with vitamins and other nutrients can help reduce bad breath.

Use breath fresheners: However, it should be noted that cats have a sensitive sense of smell and should be used with caution.

Regular physical examination: Take the cat to the veterinary office for regular physical examination to promptly identify and address potential health issues.