When a Good Pet Has Bad Breath!

Do you cringe at the idea of getting a big, sloppy kiss from your pet? If so, chances are that the animal is suffering from halitosis, or bad breath, a very common problem in both dogs and cats. In any case of bad breath, a complete oral and physical examination of the pet is a good idea.

There are many reasons why an animal's breath may have an unpleasant odor. Sometimes, the cause can be serious; halitosis is a clinical sign of several severe illnesses, including "feline AIDS," or the feline immunodeficiency virus. More often, though, bad breath results from poor dental hygiene. Many owners do not realize that like humans, cats and dogs can get gingivitis. In fact, gingivitis, or periodontal disease, most commonly causes bad breath in our pet population.

In young teething animals in particular, bad breath tends to be caused by normal transient gingivitis that occurs with dental eruption. Gingivitis is a reversible condition resulting from inflammatory processes of the oral tissues. With this dental disease, plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth and the gums may bleed easily. Owners may notice this when they see blood on their dog's chew toys. Because dental disease can result in serious kidney, liver and heart complications later in life, it is important to treat it early on.

Frequently, diet contributes to dental disease. The use of soft/moist foods such as Tender Vittles, or low quality canned foods that are sticky and adhere to the animal's teeth, may contribute to tartar build-up and result in an unpleasant odor. In contrast, dry dog and cat food may be more beneficial because they have a mechanically abrasive action that decreases contact time with the teeth and leaves less residue.

In older pets, halitosis may be the result of many different factors, some of them more serious than others. Because there are so many potential causes of halitosis in older pets, owners should consult with their veterinarians if they notice bad breath.

The pet's chewing habits may be contributing to the halitosis. Some dogs will chew on rocks and sticks, causing repetitive trauma to the oral tissues. When this happens, bacterial colonization occurs, resulting in a foul odor.

Another way that foul breath can occur is when a pet, usually a dog, obtains the bad habit of eating stool. This common problem is very unpleasant and may result in internal parasites.

Other more serious causes of bad breath exist, including underlying viral or metabolic diseases that may be serious. Bloodwork may be necessary to screen for metabolic diseases that cause halitosis, such as kidney problems. When there is improper kidney function, the toxins usually filtered out of the blood stream remain in circulation. These uremic toxins manifest as a foul breath odor.

In addition, many pets with skin disease, gastrointestinal disease, and urinary disease lick the affected areas. As a result, odors that originate elsewhere are detected in the mouth.

Because there are so many potential causes of bad breath, you should contact your veterinarian if your pet is less than kissable. Getting to the source of the halitosis may allow you and your cat or dog more pleasant snuggling. Much more importantly, though, it will help you to take action against any possible threats to your pet's health and welfare.

*Article courtesy of VetCentric.com
Originally published November 18, 2004
Written by: Elizabeth L. DeLomba, DVM
For more information on this article, please visit http://www.vetcentric.com


Here are some products that the Cat Connection recommends to help keep you pet's teeth looking good and their breath smelling even better.

Petrodex Finger Toothbrush
The Petrodex Finger Toothbrush for pets gently removes plaque and food debris and massages gums. Its unique design allows for brushing hard to reach back teeth. Easy to use, just slip over finger and ideal for puppies and kittens. Dishwasher safe.

Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste
Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste for cats has a hydrogen peroxide-producing enzyme system that enhances the naturally-occurring antibacterial action in saliva. Because of this, it helps clean teeth and fights bad breath while helping to remove plaque and food debris. This special toothpaste does not foam so there's no need for rinsing. Malt flavored to assure acceptance. Fluoride free and veterinarian approved!

Petrodex Dental Care Kit
The Petrodex Dental Care Kit contains everything you need to keep your pet's teeth clean and healthy. The hydrogen peroxide-producing enzyme system enhances the naturally-occurring antibacterial action in saliva. Kit contains a 2.5 oz Malt flavored Petrodex enzymatic toothpaste, Petrodex toothbrush developed by a veterinarian, and a finger toothbrush to gently remove plaque and food debris.

- Hydrogen peroxide producing formula
- Cleans teeth and freshens breath
- Removes plaque and food debris
- Fluoride Free!
- Veterinarian Approved
- Does not foam - no need to rinse.
- Malt flavored to assure acceptance

Petrodex Breath Spray for Dogs & Cats
Petrodex Breath Spray removes offensive bad breath instantly and fights the bacteria that causes plaque. Helps to clean teeth and sooth irritated gums. Used routinely, it helps to control bad breath. Non-foaming.

Pit 'r Pat Breath Fresheners
Cats just love the taste of delectable Pit 'r Pat Breath Fresheners and you will fancy the fun fish shape and the convenient, take-anywhere tins. Pit 'r Pat Breath Fresheners contain rosemary oil, green tea extract and chlorophyllin to naturally freshen breath, and liver for a flavor cats find irresistible. Banish fish breath with Pit 'r Pat Breath Fresheners for Cats.