🦷 Bad Breath in Dogs and Cats: A 2025 Vet Guide to Halitosis Causes and Care 🐾

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Bad breath — or halitosis — is one of the most common concerns I hear from pet parents. While many might joke about “doggy breath,” persistent odor from your dog or cat’s mouth can signal something more serious. Let’s break down the causes of halitosis, how it’s diagnosed, and how you can freshen your furry friend’s breath for good. 🩺🪥

💨 What Is Halitosis?

Halitosis is the term for a foul odor coming from the mouth. It’s a symptom, not a diagnosis — meaning it tells us there’s likely an underlying issue, usually involving the teeth, gums, or even internal organs. 🧪

😷 What Causes Bad Breath in Pets?

Most bad breath is due to periodontal disease caused by plaque bacteria. Here’s what happens:

1. 🦠 Bacteria stick to the teeth within hours after cleaning
2. 🧱 Plaque mineralizes into tartar (calculus)
3. 🔥 Gums become inflamed → gingivitis
4. 🦴 Bone loss develops → periodontitis
5. 🦴 Bacteria begin producing hydrogen sulfide → bad smell!

🧬 Other Causes of Halitosis:

• 🐟 Eating smelly food or feces (coprophagia)
• 🩺 Internal disease (kidney failure, diabetes)
• 🌬️ Respiratory infections (rhinitis, sinusitis)
• ⚠️ Gastrointestinal issues (foreign body, tumors)
• 🧫 Infections (fungal, viral, or bacterial)
• 🦷 Oral trauma, ulcers, or broken teeth
• 🐛 Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions (e.g. eosinophilic granuloma)

📌 Some breeds with lip folds (like Bulldogs or Spaniels) may develop halitosis from skin infections around the mouth. 🐶

🩺 What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

Bad breath is often the only clue something is wrong. Most pets don’t show obvious pain, even with serious dental issues. However, watch for:

• 🍽️ Difficulty chewing or dropping food
• 🐾 Pawing at the mouth
• 😔 Decreased appetite or irritability

Remember — animals are experts at hiding pain. 🕵️

🔍 Diagnosing the Cause of Halitosis

Your vet will begin with a thorough oral exam. If no clear cause is found, the next steps may include:

• 🧪 Bloodwork to check kidney or liver disease
• 🩻 Dental X-rays for hidden tooth or jaw problems
• 👃 Nasal or throat evaluation if sinus or respiratory disease is suspected

💉 How Is Halitosis Treated?

Treatment depends on the cause. Here are common approaches:

🪥 1. Professional Dental Cleaning

Early stages of periodontal disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with a thorough cleaning under anesthesia. 🧽

🦷 2. Extractions or Surgery

Advanced dental disease or infected teeth may require tooth extraction or minor surgery. This may also include removing tumors or foreign bodies. 🛠️

🌿 3. Zinc-Based Oral Rinses

Products like zinc citrate can help neutralize odors by binding with the hydrogen sulfide gases bacteria produce. 🧪

💊 4. Treat Underlying Illnesses

• 💧 Kidney failure → fluid therapy or diet change
• 🍬 Diabetes → insulin and glucose control
• 🦠 Respiratory or GI issues → antibiotics or further investigation

🧼 Home Care for Fresh Breath

Even after treatment, keeping your pet’s breath fresh means staying on top of oral hygiene. Here’s how:

🪥 Daily Tooth Brushing

• 🐶 Use pet-safe toothpaste (never human paste!)
• 🪥 Start slowly with finger brushes or gauze pads
• ✅ Reward and praise!

🥩 Dental Diets and Treats

Look for VOHC-approved chews or diets that help reduce plaque and tartar. 🎖️

🧪 Water Additives & Rinses

Products like chlorhexidine or enzymatic rinses can be added to drinking water or applied directly. 💧

📉 What’s the Prognosis?

With proper care and treatment, halitosis often resolves completely. 👍

For pets with periodontal disease, success depends on consistent follow-up care, daily brushing, and regular cleanings. 🧼🗓️

📱 Ask A Vet Can Help

Bad breath can be a sign of more serious illness. Use the Ask A Vet App to:

• 📋 Upload photos of teeth or gums
• 💬 Chat with a licensed vet anytime
• 📅 Get reminders for dental cleanings

Visit AskAVet.com for help managing your pet’s oral health. 🐶🐱

🧠 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Bad breath isn’t just unpleasant — it’s a clue. Addressing halitosis early helps prevent serious complications and keeps your dog or cat happy, healthy, and pain-free. 🦷❤️

If you’ve noticed a foul smell from your pet’s mouth, don’t ignore it. A veterinary dental check could be the key to a healthier future. 🐾