Why My Cat Has Stinky Breath

My Cat Has Stinky Breath: What It Really Means (From an Aussie Mobile Vet)

If your cat has stinky breath, you’re not alone. Lots of cats have smelly mouths, and most cat owners and most cats themselves! assume it’s just “normal” for kitties to have bad breath.

As an Australian mobile vet, I hear the comment “my cat has stinky breath” very often. Here’s the honest truth about cats’ bad breath, what it usually means, and how I can help as a mobile veterinarian.

What Causes Stinky Breath in Cats?

Is It Normal for Cat Breath to Smell?

The first thing to understand is that there is a normal level of cat-breath smell. After eating, it’s common for cats to have breath that smells like their food.

However:

• Cats shouldn’t have persistently stinky breath
• If your cat’s breath smells unpleasant to you, it likely signals an underlying health problem
• If the smell worsens over time, the underlying issue is likely progressing

A Quick Check of Your Cat’s Teeth

One of the easiest ways to detect early dental disease is a simple look inside your cat’s mouth. Using a flashlight, check for:

• Tartar build-up on teeth
• Inflamed gums (they should be pink, not red or swollen)
• Excessive drooling
• Changes in eating behaviour

If bad breath persists for more than two weeks, your cat likely has an underlying oral health problem.

Dental Disease: The Most Common Cause

The main cause of stinky breath in cats is dental disease. Cats commonly develop:

• Gingivitis (inflamed gums)
• Periodontal disease (infection and inflammation)
• Tooth resorption (where teeth gradually break down)

Any of these conditions can produce noticeable mouth odour.

Other Medical Causes of Stinky Breath

Sometimes bad breath is caused by diseases affecting the whole body, including:

• Kidney disease (more common in older cats)
• Diabetes
• Oral ulcers or tumours

If your cat also shows signs such as increased drinking, vomiting, or weight loss, the problem may extend beyond dental disease see your vet promptly.

Is Stinky Cat Breath Ever an Emergency?

Bad breath alone is usually not an emergency.
However, seek urgent veterinary care if your cat shows:

• Difficulty eating or refusing food
• Excessive drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Swelling around the face or jaw

These signs can indicate significant oral pain or infection.

How Can I Help My Cat’s Stinky Breath?

Tooth Brushing In Theory

In an ideal world, cats would tolerate regular tooth brushing. In reality, most cats strongly object.

Dental Diets and Support Options

Depending on your cat’s preferences, options may include:

• Dental diets formulated to reduce plaque
• Dental treats
• Water additives that support oral health
  (always check with your vet first)

What Happens During a Mobile Vet Visit?

During a home visit, I perform a comprehensive examination of your cat’s teeth and overall health.

If significant dental disease or other concerns are found, options may include:

• Referral for dental cleaning under anaesthesia at a partner clinic
• Blood tests to assess for kidney disease, diabetes, or other conditions

We then create a plan tailored to your cat’s specific needs.

What Happens If Dental Disease Is Left Untreated?

Untreated dental disease can lead to:

• Chronic oral pain (which cats often hide)
• Tooth loss
• Infection spreading to other organs
• Serious systemic illness such as kidney complications

When Should You Book a Mobile Vet?

You should arrange a visit if your cat has:

• Persistent bad breath lasting more than two weeks
• Changes in eating behaviour
• Signs of mouth discomfort

Early assessment often prevents more advanced disease and costlier treatment later.

The Bottom Line: Most Cats Shouldn’t Have Stinky Breath

Bad breath may be common but it isn’t normal.

If your cat’s breath becomes noticeably unpleasant, dental disease has likely begun, and your cat may already be experiencing discomfort.

Protecting your cat’s oral health helps protect their overall health and quality of life.

If you’re wondering what causes your cat’s bad breath, how to treat it, or whether a mobile vet should examine them, a home visit can provide answers in a low-stress environment.

We know how much Aussies love their pets and keeping them healthy for as long as possible matters.

The Best Way to Know If Your Cat Is Unwell

The best way to determine whether your cat’s “grumpy day” is actually a health problem is a veterinary assessment in the comfort of home, where your cat feels safe and relaxed.

A Pawssum mobile vet arrives fully equipped for a thorough health check, helping detect issues early so your furry companion can recover quickly. Many dental and health problems are first identified during our annual check-up service.