Why Bad Breath Isn’t Normal: What Your Pet’s Mouth Is Trying to Tell You
- Content Writer
- 12 minutes ago
- 4 min read
We’ve all caught a whiff of our pet’s breath and chalked it up to something they ate, or “doggie breath” - but persistent bad breath in dogs or cats is not something to ignore. It’s virtually always a sign that something more serious is going on beneath the lips, especially in the gums and teeth.
In this blog, we’ll explore what causes bad breath in pets, how it relates to dental disease, and when it’s time to book a vet visit.
Contents
Is Bad Breath in Pets Ever Normal?
A mild odour after meals or from time to time isn’t unusual - but persistent, strong, or foul-smelling breath is not normal. In most cases, it’s a red flag for dental disease or an underlying health problem.
Unfortunately, many owners think bad breath is just part of having a pet. But nothing could be further from the truth. Rather, it signals conditions that can cause pain, tooth loss, and even affect organs like the heart and kidneys
Common Causes of Bad Breath in Pets
Bad breath, or halitosis, can have several causes, including:
Tartar and plaque build-up
Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums)
Stuck food or foreign material (especially in the back teeth)
Oral infections or abscesses
Rotting or fractured teeth
In rarer cases, bad breath can be linked to systemic issues like diabetes or kidney disease — another reason why it’s not something to ignore.
Dental Disease: The #1 Culprit
By far the most common reason for bad breath in pets is dental disease. It typically starts with plaque - a sticky film of bacteria - that hardens into tartar if not brushed away each day. Over time, this leads to inflammation, infection, and damage to the tissues and bones that support the teeth.
Signs of dental disease include:
Bad breath that doesn’t go away
Red or bleeding gums
Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
Difficulty eating or chewing
Drooling or pawing at the mouth
Loose or missing teeth
Pets “slowing-down” as they age.
Dogs and cats are experts at hiding pain, so even if they seem fine, they could be quietly suffering from an advanced dental condition.
Other Health Issues Linked to Bad Breath
While dental disease is the most likely cause, foul-smelling breath can also point to problems beyond the mouth, such as:
Kidney disease – may cause a metallic or ammonia-like smell
Diabetes – can produce a sweet, fruity odour in some cases
Liver disease – may result in musty or unusually foul breath
Oral cancer – rare but serious; often associated with sudden or worsening halitosis
These conditions require immediate veterinary attention, making it even more important not to dismiss changes in your pet’s breath.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Alongside bad breath, look out for these signs that your pet may be experiencing dental or health issues:
Reluctance to eat dry food or chew toys
Dropping food while eating
Weight loss or reduced appetite
Changes in behaviour or irritability
Swelling around the jaw or under the eye
Blood in saliva or on toys
If you notice any of these, it’s time for a professional check-up.
When to See the Vet
You should contact your vet if your pet’s breath:
Smells persistently unpleasant or unusual
Is accompanied by other signs like gum redness, tooth discolouration, bleeding from the mouth or changes in eating habits
Suddenly worsens or changes in character
Occurs in an older pet who hasn’t had a dental check-up recently
At Roundwood Vets, we provide comprehensive dental assessments, professional cleaning (under anaesthetic), and advice on how to maintain a healthy mouth at home.
How to Keep Your Pet’s Breath Fresh
The good news? With the right care, most cases of bad breath are preventable. And with the right pet dentist, most problems can be solved.
Tips for fresh breath and healthy teeth:
Brush your pet’s teeth daily with a pet-safe toothpaste
Use dental chews and toys as part of your routine
Try dental diets or supplements recommended by your vet
Schedule regular dental check-ups — we suggest annually for most pets
Book a professional clean if advised, especially for older pets or those with tartar build-up
Consistent home care and early vet intervention can prevent pain, save teeth, and give your pet a much better quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Bad breath might seem harmless, but it’s usually your pet’s way of telling you something isn’t right. Whether it’s dental disease or a more serious condition, early action is the best way to protect their health — and your nose!
📞 Worried about your pet’s breath? Book a dental check-up at Roundwood Vets and let’s get to the root of the issue.
We believe preventing disease is a far better way of helping your pet stay fit, comfortable, happy and healthy. So we’ve created the Vital Pets Club to make sure every pet owner has easy access to the best pet care at an affordable price.
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