Cats can normally have slightly fishy breath that smells like cat food, but it’s usually not strong or offensive. Foul-smelling breath or a sudden worsening of normal breath can be an early sign of a problem, and it is really important to take your cat to your veterinarian if you notice these changes.

Dental Disease: This is one of the most common causes of halitosis in cats. The build-up of food and saliva can result in dental plaque and tartar, similar to that seen in human dentistry. This plaque and tartar can lead to periodontal disease and gum inflammation (gingivitis). Along with halitosis, you might notice that your cat is reluctant to chew and is reluctant to have his mouth touched or manipulated. It’s important to ask your veterinarian about a routine preventative dental health program that includes brushing teeth (with special pet toothpaste, not human toothpaste), dental treats, and possibly a dental diet to get those teeth sparkling clean and freshen that breath. Untreated dental disease can also lead to other medical issues, including oral pain, difficulty chewing food, abscesses of the teeth and salivary glands, tooth loss, and potentially, infection of other organs or systems in the body, including the heart and kidneys.

Diet: Smelly diets, such as fish or liver-based foods, may contribute to halitosis.

Foreign Body in the Mouth: Cat oral foreign bodies can include strings, rubber bands, bones, and other small objects. If they are not removed quickly they can contribute to halitosis. Foreign bodies can also be swallowed and lead to dangerous obstructions in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

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