Bad Breath in Cats (Halitosis)

Bad breath in cats is more common in older cats where it is often related to a disorder in teeth and gums such as periodontal disease or abscesses. Younger cats that are losing their baby teeth and growing in their adult teeth may also develop bad breath. In a small percentage of cats though the milk teeth can fail to come through and this can cause infection, ulcers and bad breath. In cats of any age a piece of food or bone that has become firmly lodged in the teeth can also cause bad breath. More uncommon causes of bad breath in cats is that of a growth or tumour, and if your cat is developing this symptom then it should be diagnosed by a trained veterinary surgeon so that the appropriate treatment can be carried out. Bad breath can also be a symptom of kidney disease (uremia) in older cats.