Things You Can Do To Cure Cat Bad Breath

Cat bad breath is one of the most common medical conditions found in cats. Cat is a carnivorous and has a natural odor to its breath which is caused by different kinds of foods that it eats; especially fish-based foods. But if you smell an odor that is more than just 'cat breath' and approaches "bear breath", then don't ignore it and consult a vet soon. Feline bad breath is also called halitosis and is caused by either dental problems or other underlying diseases.

Cat bad breath can be an indication of other diseases like:

• Gingivitis or inflammation of the gums
• Infected tooth or teeth, filled with pus
• Bone or hair stuck in the mouth
• Formation of oral ulcer
• Foreign bodies stuck in the mouth
• Oral neoplasia or tumors in the mouth
• Lung cancer
• Kidney disease

What to watch for if you suspect cat bad breath

• Oral discharge
• Oral pain
• Bloody oral discharge
• Drooling
• Dysphagia or difficulty in swallowing
• Difficulty in eating
• Depression or change in mood or behavior

Tests for halitosis Diagnosis

The vet will perform the following tests to determine the underlying cause of feline halitosis.

• A check of the cat's complete medical history
• Thorough physical examination
• A complete oral examination
• Full-mouth radiographs (X-ray)
• Periodontal probing to examine gum and periodontal diseases

The treatment of halitosis depends upon the correct diagnosis of what is causing the bad breath. Numerous reasons can cause bad breath in cats and different diseases will require different modes of medical treatment.

If feline halitosis is caused due to various factors like kidney disease, diabetes, or cancer, it will need urgent special treatment under expert supervision. For other causes, the treatment includes the following procedures:

• Removal of the foreign object that is stuck inside mouth
• Appropriate treatment for removal of oral tumors
• Periodontal therapy and root planting that includes cleaning and scraping of the teeth

Treatment To Cure Halitosis-

1. It is a good idea to take your pet to the vet for a yearly check up that also includes a dental exam. If your cat has slight bad breath, then a yearly check up will identify the bad breath and its cause at the earliest. As a result, your cat will suffer less and early detection will make the treatment easy as well.
2. You can introduce a branded dry commercial cat food that helps to decrease the formation of plaque. Avoid feeding your cat canned food because canned food increases the chances of plaque formation. You can also ask the vet to prescribe a good, healthy diet that will prevent it from bad breath in the future.
3. Provide your cat with foods that contains enzymes, which helps to minimize dental plaque. Nylon bones are also good to prevent tartar or dental plaque.
4. Brushing teeth regularly is the most effective process to maintain good dental health.
5. Mouthwash and mouth sprays are also effective in dissolving plaque and bacteria.

If you smell bad breath in your cat, then try to identify the cause of bad breath and follow these home remedies. If cat bad breath persists for a long time in spite of home remedies, then take your cat to the vet as soon as possible.