PetMeds What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs and Cats?



Bad breath in pets can be linked to periodontal disease to more serious oral cancers Another common complaint of animal guardians is why their pet has such bad breath, also known as halitosis by the medical and veterinary profession. Bad breath can have many potential causes. The first and most obvious includes some sort of oral periodontal disease. This can range from loose or infected teeth with bacterial plaque buildup, to more extensive lesions and swelling of the gums.

In older pets, tumors or growths which can range from benign gum growths called epuli, to more serious oral cancers can also be found. It is important, however, for an animal guardian to realize, that dental disease is not the only cause of bad breath in a pet. Sometimes upper respiratory and/or sinus infections, particularly in cats can be a common cause of bad breath. Poor digestion and/or digestive tract disease, including intermittent belching or reflux can present bad breath in a dog or cat who is otherwise not having any signs of vomiting or diarrhea.

Depending upon the cause of the bad breath will determine proper course of treatment. That is why any pet with chronic bad breath should have a full medical exam and veterinary assessment to rule many of these possibilities out. Once a diagnosis is obtained, an appropriate course of treatment can be instituted.

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Recent Comments
  • hassan: how can l stop my bad breathing
  • hassan: how con l stop my bad breath
  • Emily Gordon: * You must be logged into Answers to add comments. Sign in or Register.
  • Ann Emery: There are currently no comments for this question.
  • Sharon Jones: My doctor says the bad taste is an acid reflux symptom and has told me to take Prilosec for two weeks....
  • Patrick Coleman: hey guys.   yeah,  i’m having that nasty taste in my mouth as well.  Nothing really seems to...
  • Rick Vance: apple cider vinegar and honey- it works
  • Nicole Butts: (1/4 cup AV Juice& a splash of juice or water)
  • Betty Mcelfresh: I had same acid reflux issue before 6 month. I was taking 150mg Rantec every day. but after starting...
  • Sandra Smith: Does anyone know what is going on with these symtoms.