Your cat’s bad breath, or halitosis, could point to a number of health issues. While a cat’s breath probably won’t smell lovely, an especially pungent odor is cause for concern. Here, a Jensen Beach vet tells you more.

How Do I Tell if My Cat Has Halitosis?

Take a sniff of kitty’s breath. Doesn’t smell like a field of lilies? That’s okay—only in cases where the breath smells particularly offensive is there a potential health issue. Of course, your veterinary professional is the most qualified to determine if your cat’s breath is a problem or not. Make an appointment if you’re even slightly unsure about your cat’s oral health.

What’s Causing My Cat’s Bad Breath?

Halitosis can be caused by a few factors. Odor-causing bacteria is the leading cause, which is usually brought on by gum or tooth disease caused by plaque and tartar build-up. In more serious cases, gastrointestinal issues, liver, kidney, or respiratory problems could be the underlying cause of the halitosis. Your veterinarian will be able to pinpoint the cause of your cat’s breath issues.

When Should I Take My Cat to the Vet’s Office?

In addition to noticing an especially offensive odor, you should take your cat to the vet if you notice a particularly sweet, fruity odor, as it may be an indicator of diabetes. If you notice excessive brown-colored tartar on your cat’s teeth, difficulty eating, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or red and inflamed gums, call your veterinarian’s office. You’ll need to set up an appointment to get your cat’s mouth checked out.

How Can I Maintain My Cat’s Oral Health?

Keep your cat’s mouth healthy at home by checking the mouth, teeth, and gums regularly. Brush your cat’s teeth several times a month with specially-formulated cat toothpaste. Ask your Jensen Beach veterinarian about the proper procedure for this.

Take your cat to see your veterinarian regularly—if oral problems are caught early enough, it will be far easier to treat them and have your cat recover fully.