Why Is My Pet’s Breath So Smelly?

Bad breath is not pleasant for anyone, especially for pets. There is nothing abnormal about your pet having an occasional bad breath, but it is not normal for your pet to constantly have such a bad breath. No smell is as unpleasant as a pet’s foul breath smell. Even though you may appreciate your dog’s kisses, getting up close and personal might not be the best idea if your pet has bad breath.

It’s not just gross that your pet has bad breath – it could also be an indication of health problems. Take a moment to research the causes of bad breath in pets and what you can do to prevent and treat it before giving them a breath mints. 

Causes of Bad Breath

We’ve listed the most common causes of bad breath in pets and how to avoid it. Let’s take a look.

• Bacteria Build Up

Almost all dogs and cats suffer from dental disease by the time they are three years old. Poor oral health is one of the leading causes of bad breath in pets. Periodontal disease and resorption dental disease are the conditions that most commonly affect your pet’s oral health when it comes to dental disease. And let’s face it, most pet owners do not find it easy to brush their pet’s teeth, and pets cannot adhere to home oral care. This makes it easy for their pet to develop bacteria. If left untreated, it can cause dental disease, and it also spreads bacteria and chronic inflammation throughout your animal’s body.

• Diet

We are what we eat, isn’t it right? Pets are no exception. Your pet’s breath may smell a bit off if they are on a diet that contains a lot of fish. Fish oil supplements factor into this category, too. Coprophagia – the act of eating poop can also be the reason. The smell of that would rival a towel bowl! Remember the last time you ate something that made you gag or burped after taking a fish oil capsule? Gross!

• Diabetes

You need to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if your pet’s bad breath smells sweet or fruity. Diabetes, a serious but treatable condition, results in a sweet, fruity breath. Get your dog examined if you notice other symptoms of diabetes like frequent drinking or urination, and ask your veterinarian about other signs to watch for.

• Liver Diseases

Your pet may have a liver disease if her breath smells foul, she is vomiting, doesn’t seem to enjoy eating, and has a yellow tint to her gums. It is essential that you start your pet’s treatment as soon as possible if they have liver problems, as it can be a sign of a severe condition.

• Kidney Diseases

If your pet has been eating poop, they might have breath that smells like it, but if their breath smells like urine, that definitely does not mean they have been drinking urine. You should visit your veterinarian if your pet’s breath smells like urine. This could be a symptom of kidney illness. It’s critical to recognize that kidney dysfunction could be a sign of a more serious health concern.

How To Prevent Smelly Breath 

• Ensure Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral health starts with brushing your teeth. It is best to brush your pet once a day after they have learned to tolerate it. Brushing once a day can help reduce the frequency of future vet visits for dental cleanings. Try the Virbac C.E.T Oral Hygiene Kit with Toothpaste, Toothbrush & Fingerbrush for Dogs & Cats! You may also use dental chews which can keep your dog occupied while keeping its mouth clean! Try the Absolute Holistic Dental Chew Mint Value Pack which are uniquely shaped to act like a toothbrush to effectively scrap plaque and tartar. For cats, try Vitakraft’s Crispy Crunch Dental Pepper Mint Cat Treats. 

• Visit the Vet Often.

Bad breath in pets can be treated based on its root cause. Once the underlying issue is resolved, your pet’s bad breath should disappear.

It’s important that you take your pet to your vet if you notice sudden changes in his breath, mainly if they are older. When conditions are caught at an early stage, treatments are more likely to be effective. You can give our vet, perrovets a try!

• Change Their Diets

If your pet has no other symptoms of underlying diseases and still has bad breath, you can change their diet. A wrong diet can build up plaque in your pet’s gum that can cause bad breath. Providing them with the right food products can help prevent bacteria from building up. Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)-approved products are good for your dog’s dental health. Their unique formulation helps remove tartar and plaque from his teeth, thus reducing both tooth and gum decay.

The importance of oral hygiene for your pet is just as great as it is for you. Be sure to take good care of your pet before things get worse. If your dog has bad breath, ask your veterinarian what types of oral health products they recommend.