Why Your Pet’s Bad Breath Could Be a Bigger Issue
- Dr. Emma Clark
- 27 minutes ago
- 4 min read
It’s easy to laugh off a whiff of bad breath from your pet—after all, “dog breath” and “fishy cat kisses” are something many owners jokingly accept. But persistent bad breath, or halitosis, is often a sign of underlying dental disease, and in senior pets especially, it can signal more serious health concerns.
In this guide, we explore why bad breath shouldn’t be ignored, how it relates to your pet’s overall health, and what you can do to keep their mouth—and their body—in better condition.
Contents
What Causes Bad Breath in Pets?
Occasional morning breath after a nap or strong-smelling food is normal—but consistent or worsening bad breath often comes from bacteria in the mouth. Common causes include:
Plaque and tartar build-up
Gingivitis (gum inflammation)
Periodontal disease (advanced gum and bone infection)
Tooth root abscesses or broken teeth
Foreign material stuck between teeth
Tumours or oral ulcers
Sometimes, bad breath may also signal problems elsewhere in the body, including kidney or digestive disease—especially in older pets.
Dental Disease: More Than Just Smelly Breath
By the age of three, around 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease. If left untreated, what starts as bad breath and yellow teeth can progress to:
Chronic pain—from infected or loose teeth
Tooth loss, making eating difficult
Gum recession and exposed roots
Jaw bone damage (particularly in small breed dogs or cats)
Pets rarely show obvious pain, so bad breath might be your only early clue that something is wrong. If your pet’s mouth smells foul, it’s not just a hygiene issue—it’s a health concern.
How Oral Health Affects the Whole Body
The consequences of dental disease go beyond the mouth. When bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream, it can travel to other organs and contribute to:
Kidney disease
Liver inflammation
Heart conditions, such as endocarditis
Increased strain on the immune system
This is particularly risky in senior pets, whose organ function may already be under pressure. Keeping the mouth clean supports their whole body.
Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Problems
Bad breath is often the first and most obvious symptom—but look out for:
Drooling or pawing at the mouth
Reluctance to eat hard food or treats
Chewing on one side
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Brown or yellow tartar on teeth
Sudden preference for soft food
Changes in behaviour, such as irritability or withdrawal
Any of these signs warrant a vet visit, especially if your pet is older or has other health concerns.
Preventing and Managing Dental Disease
Prevention is easier—and kinder—than waiting until surgery or extractions are needed. Tips include:
Daily tooth brushing with pet-safe toothpaste
Dental chews or food designed to reduce plaque
Water additives or oral gels to support hygiene
Regular vet check-ups that include dental assessments
Professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia and only by a Vet when needed
Never use human toothpaste, and never attempt to remove tartar at home—it can damage the teeth or gums without proper tools.
When to See Your Vet
Book a dental check-up if:
Your pet’s breath is consistently foul or worsening
You see visible tartar, red gums, or broken teeth
They are eating less, chewing strangely, or showing signs of pain
You notice a swelling near the jaw or under the eye
It’s been over a year since their last dental examination
Dental disease is one of the most common and most under-treated issues in pets—especially in seniors. Early action can prevent years of silent discomfort and health complications.
Your pet’s breath is more than a cosmetic concern—it’s a window into their health. If you’ve been living with bad breath for a while, don’t wait for more obvious signs to appear. With early dental care and veterinary support, you can give your pet a cleaner mouth, a healthier body, and a better quality of life.
FAQs
Is bad breath normal in older pets?
No. While mild changes may occur with age, strong or worsening breath usually indicates dental disease or an underlying health issue. It’s not something to ignore.
My pet still eats fine—can they still have dental disease?
Yes. Pets are very good at masking pain and may continue eating around sore areas. Eating well doesn’t mean their mouth is healthy.
Can bad breath come from other health problems?
Yes. Conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or gastrointestinal issues can all affect breath. Your vet may recommend blood tests if oral health doesn’t fully explain the symptoms.
How often should my pet have dental checks?
Ideally every 6–12 months, depending on age and breed. Small breeds and senior pets may need more frequent monitoring.
Is anaesthesia safe for dental cleaning in older pets?
With proper pre-anaesthetic blood tests and monitoring, yes. The risks of untreated dental disease often outweigh the risks of a well-managed anaesthetic in most senior pets.
I’ve seen anaesthesia-free cleaning offered by my groomer- is that a good option?
Unfortunately, anaesthesia-free cleaning offered by groomers is not a good choice in pets with dental disease. The cleanings offered in awake animals can miss significant disease and cause pain to the pet. Cosmetically the teeth may look better, however groomers are not trained or qualified to remove diseased teeth, or clean under the gum line- the crucial area for reducing dental disease. The Royal Society of Veterinary Surgeons has produced a statement to help owners understand the difference.
