Let’s be honest — our cats can be a little quirky. They’ll sprint through the house at 3 AM, chase invisible things, and occasionally, grace us with a face full of… less-than-fresh breath. If you’ve ever leaned in for a cuddle only to be greeted by a whiff of something that smells like rotten fish or worse, you’re not alone.

But here’s the big question: is it just normal “cat breath” or a sign of something more serious? Let’s break it down together.

What’s Normal and What’s Not When It Comes to Cat Breath?

Sure — a cat’s breath isn’t supposed to smell like a bouquet of roses. If your kitty just ate some fish-based wet food or had a nibble of something questionable (because let’s face it, they do that), you might catch a little whiff of it. That’s pretty normal and usually short-lived.

But if your cat’s breath is consistently bad, sharp, or sour-smelling, it’s worth paying attention. Bad breath in cats — also called halitosis — can be a red flag for underlying issues you might not see right away.

Common Causes of Bad Breath in Cats

Let’s decode what might actually be causing that funky feline breath:

Dental Disease

This is the #1 culprit when it comes to bad breath in cats. Plaque and tartar build up on your cat’s teeth just like ours, leading to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. If your cat’s gums look red, swollen, or bleed easily, it’s time to get those teeth checked.

Pro Tip: Lift your cat’s lip and take a peek — if you see yellow or brown buildup or inflamed gums, that’s a sign to call us at (604) 301-0300.

Diet

Certain foods can definitely affect your cat’s breath, especially those heavy in fish oils or certain proteins. If the bad breath started after switching to a new food, it might just be dietary. But if it lingers — it’s worth looking deeper.

Oral Infections or Abscesses

Sometimes a cat might have an infection or abscess in their mouth or throat from a bite wound, stuck object, or infected tooth. This can smell incredibly foul — almost like something decaying. If your cat’s breath smells unusually awful and they’re drooling, pawing at their mouth, or refusing food, it’s urgent.

Systemic Health Issues

Believe it or not, bad breath isn’t always just a mouth problem. It can sometimes signal issues elsewhere in the body like:

• Kidney disease — which gives the breath a chemical, ammonia-like odor.
• Diabetes — which can cause a sweet or fruity smell to the breath.
• Liver problems — which may bring on a sour, musty odor.

If you notice bad breath along with other symptoms like weight loss, excessive drinking, vomiting, or changes in appetite, it’s time to have your cat thoroughly checked.

What Should You Do if Your Cat Has Bad Breath?

If you’ve caught yourself dodging your cat’s kisses lately, here’s what we recommend:

Inspect Their Mouth

Look for redness, swelling, tartar, or sores. If your cat lets you, gently smell their breath up close — weird as it sounds, you’ll get a good sense of whether it’s food-related or something more.

Check Their Behavior

Are they eating less? Acting lethargic? Drooling? Avoiding you (or hiding)? These signs paired with bad breath suggest it’s time for a vet visit.

Book a Dental Check-up

We can help you figure out what’s going on. At Atlas Animal Hospital, we offer thorough dental exams and cleanings, and we’ll give you honest, practical advice on keeping your kitty’s mouth healthy.

How to Prevent Bad Breath in Cats

The good news? There’s plenty you can do to keep your cat’s breath fresh and their health in check:

• Regular dental cleanings — yearly professional cleanings can prevent most dental diseases.
• At-home dental care — brushing your cat’s teeth (yes, it’s possible!) or using vet-approved dental treats and rinses.
• Proper nutrition — choosing balanced, high-quality diets.
• Annual check-ups — routine vet visits help catch issues early before they turn smelly.

When in Doubt, Reach Out

We get it — no one wants to deal with stinky cat breath, and we love helping pet parents like you figure out what’s really going on. Whether it’s a simple diet adjustment or something more serious, we’re here to support you and your feline friend.

Call us anytime at (604) 301-0300 or stop by Atlas Animal Hospital. We’ll help you decode that bad breath once and for all, so you can get back to enjoying those snuggles without holding your breath!