What Causes That Funky Cat Breath?
If you’ve ever had a cat rub its face against yours or gotten a whiff of its breath up close, you know that some cats can have a very strong and strange odor coming from their mouth. While people breath isn’t exactly fresh, cat breath can be in a whole other league of stinky.
In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of bad cat breath, when you should be concerned, and how to improve your cat’s oral health and breath. We’ll also look at precautions cat owners should take for their own health, differences between cat and dog breath, and when it’s time to see the vet about your cat’s funky mouth odor.
So let’s dive in and demystify why cat’s have such foul-smelling mouths!
What Causes Cat Breath Odor?
There are several potential causes of bad breath in cats:
Bacteria and plaque buildup on teeth – Food particles and bacteria accumulate on a cat’s teeth over time. This buildup causes tartar formation and eventually leads to bad breath (1). Plaque buildup can also progress to gingivitis or periodontal disease if left untreated.
Food particles getting stuck – Smelly food particles can get caught in the teeth after eating. This provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and produce foul odors (2).
Gum disease – Gingivitis and periodontal disease allow bacteria to proliferate below the gumline. These bacteria produce sulfur compounds that lead to bad breath. Inflamed gums can also lead to bad breath (3).
Medical conditions – Systemic diseases like kidney failure, diabetes, or liver problems can lead to unpleasant breath. Respiratory diseases may also be a culprit. Even problems like cancer or abscessed teeth can manifest through bad breath (4).
In most cases, the main culprit is plaque buildup on the teeth combined with bacteria in the mouth. Daily dental care and professional cleanings help prevent odor-causing tartar. But if bad breath persists, an underlying medical issue may need to be addressed.
(2) https://mycountrysidevet.com/65-2/
Dangers of Bad Cat Breath for Humans
Bad cat breath can potentially pose some health risks to humans. Here are a few dangers to be aware of:
Transmission of bacteria that cause disease – Cats with dental disease or oral infections can harbor bacteria in their mouths that are capable of causing illness in humans. Bacteria like Pasteurella, Capnocytophaga, and Bartonella can be transmitted through bites or scratches. Babies and people with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to infection from these bacteria (https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/zoonotic-diseases-humans-can-get-cats).
Toxoplasmosis exposure – The parasite Toxoplasma gondii can be shed in a cat’s saliva and feces and potentially transmitted to humans. Toxoplasmosis infection is usually mild in healthy adults but can cause serious complications in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals (https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/toxoplasmosis-in-cats).
Allergic reactions – Some people are allergic to proteins found in cat saliva. Exposure to cat breath can potentially trigger allergic reactions like itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing, and skin irritation in sensitized individuals (https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/people-allergic-cats).
When You Should Be Concerned
There are certain signs related to your cat’s breath that warrant a trip to the veterinarian. Some key red flags include:
Persistent Terrible Odor – If your cat’s breath has a prolonged, intense foul smell, this could signal an underlying health issue. A visit to the vet can identify potential causes like kidney disease, diabetes, or dental disease (Purina).
Changes in Eating Habits – A cat that is reluctant to eat or that has a decreased appetite may be experiencing mouth pain from periodontal disease, stomatitis or other oral health problems. Schedule an exam if you notice changes in eating (Cornell Feline Health Center).
Excessive Drooling – Bad breath sometimes goes hand-in-hand with increased drooling. This can point to inflammation and discomfort in your cat’s mouth. Examine the teeth and gums yourself periodically to catch problems early.
Other Signs of Illness – Be attentive for symptoms like lethargy, weight loss or nasal discharge along with bad breath. Your vet can perform a full physical exam and determine if an underlying condition is behind your cat’s stinky breath.
Improving Your Cat’s Breath
There are several methods cat owners can use to improve their cat’s breath and overall dental health at home:
Regular teeth cleaning is important for reducing plaque buildup and tartar that cause bad breath. Veterinarians recommend daily tooth brushing as the most effective oral care (Cornell Feline Health Center).
Special dental treats and chews help scrape away plaque and tartar as cats chew. Look for veterinarian-approved dental treats made specifically for cats (Oxyfresh).
Brushing your cat’s teeth daily with a soft bristled brush and veterinarian-approved cat toothpaste is ideal. This physically removes plaque and bacteria buildup on the teeth and gums. Introduce brushing slowly with positive rewards.
Water additives contain ingredients that help stop bacteria growth in the mouth. They can make the water more palatable and promote increased drinking, which helps flush the mouth (Purina).
For severe dental disease, veterinarians may recommend a professional dental cleaning and other treatments like tooth extractions. This is done under anesthesia and allows a deep cleaning not possible at home.
Precautions for Humans
While cat breath itself is generally not harmful to humans, there are some precautions that cat owners can take to minimize risks:
Wash hands after contact with cats to prevent spread of bacteria. Use soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after handling litter boxes or cleaning up any messes.
Avoid bites and scratches from cats. Cat bites can cause bacterial infections so wash any wounds immediately with soap and warm water. See a doctor if the wound becomes red, painful, or swollen.
Clean litter boxes frequently to reduce smells and minimize bacteria growth. Scoop waste out daily and do a full litter change once a week.
Monitor your cat’s health and be alert for symptoms like bad breath that could indicate illness. Take cats to the vet regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. Address any health issues promptly.
Taking basic precautions can help protect human health while enjoying time with feline companions.
Tips for Cat Owners
There are several things cat owners can do to help maintain their cat’s dental health:
Get annual vet dental exams. Veterinarians can spot potential issues early and perform professional cleanings when needed (source: https://www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/cat-care/guide-to-cat-dental-care).
Brush teeth weekly. Daily brushing is ideal, but even weekly brushing can dramatically slow the buildup of plaque and tartar (source: https://www.scottsdalecatclinic.com/blog/at-home-cat-dental-care-tips/). Use a soft-bristled brush and cat-safe toothpaste.
Wipe mouth after eating. Gently wiping your cat’s teeth with a soft cloth after meals can help reduce buildup.
Offer dental treats. Look for treats formulated to support dental health. Chewing also stimulates saliva production.
Stay on top of medical issues. Conditions like kidney disease can worsen dental problems. Monitoring your cat’s health helps address issues early.
When to See a Vet
If your cat is exhibiting persistent bad breath that does not improve with dental care, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet. According to the article “How to Know When to Take Your Cat to the Emergency Vet”, changes in your cat’s breath can indicate a serious medical issue that requires veterinary attention. The vet can help determine if there is an underlying condition causing the problem.
You should also make an appointment if you notice loose or infected teeth, which can be a source of foul breath. Swelling of the gums is another sign of dental disease or infection. The article “10 Warning Signs Your Cat Needs to Go to the Veterinarian” states that gum inflammation, redness, or swelling warrant a veterinary visit.
Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth are also signs your cat may be in discomfort or pain. Bring your cat to the vet if you observe this behavior, especially accompanied by loss of appetite. An inability or unwillingness to eat can indicate an oral health issue that requires medical treatment.
Cat Breath vs. Dog Breath
Cats and dogs have different oral bacteria that contribute to their distinct breath odors. Dogs harbor more plaque and gum disease-causing bacteria like Porphyromonas and Fusobacterium, while cats tend to have more oral bacteria like Pasteurella and Bartonella that spread systemic diseases.
Cats also have fewer salivary glands than dogs, so they produce less saliva, allowing more bacteria to grow in their mouth. Their small teeth and short roots are more prone to periodontal disease as well.
Different diets and eating habits also affect their breath. Dogs are more likely to eat processed kibble and chew on toys or bones, while cats usually eat wet canned food, which sticks to their teeth. Cats also groom themselves more, ingesting fur which causes hairballs and added breath odors.
So while both dog and cat breath can be unpleasant, the specific sources tend to differ. Proper dental care tailored to their unique needs is the best way to combat bad breath in both species.
Conclusion
In summary, cat breath odor can be caused by a number of factors like gum disease, tooth decay, or gastrointestinal issues. While bad cat breath may be unpleasant, it’s usually manageable through dental care, adjusting their diet, and regular vet checkups. The most important thing is keeping your cat healthy, which will naturally lead to better breath. Persistent bad breath could signal an underlying issue, so don’t hesitate to consult your vet if the problem doesn’t improve.
The bottom line is that while cat breath may not smell great at times, it’s generally not dangerous for humans. With proper oral hygiene and care for your cat, you can reduce any foul odors. Most of the causes are similar to bad human breath. So be diligent about brushing your cat’s teeth, feed them quality food and water, and schedule annual vet cleanings. With a little effort, you and your cat can both breathe easy.