If your dog or cat has bad breath, also known as halitosis, it may be an indicator of an underlying health condition that requires veterinary attention. While it's true that some animals have a stronger odor than others, if the bad odor persists in their breath, it's a sign that something is not right.
It's normal for animals to have a slightly unpleasant mouth odor after eating, but if it lasts for a long time, we should try to find out the reason.
The main cause of bad breath is the presence of periodontal disease. This condition results from a large accumulation of plaque, the mineralization of which produces tartar (dental calculus). A significant buildup of dental calculus leads to strong halitosis.
The presence of bacteria under the gums can cause bad odor and be responsible for painful problems such as periodontitis. Since most dental lesions are hidden beneath the gingival tissue, if your dog or cat has periodontal disease caused by a high bacterial load, it is important for the specialist to perform a complete oral examination along with dental radiographs. This thorough evaluation is usually done under general anesthesia.
On the other hand, halitosis can also be due to multiple oral health problems, including immune-mediated diseases (such as canine chronic ulcerative stomatitis), the presence of foreign bodies in the oral cavity, etc.
There are also pathologies outside the oral cavity that can cause bad breath, such as metabolic conditions like diabetes or other pathologies like kidney failure, respiratory or gastrointestinal tract infections.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the halitosis. In the case of a periodontal origin, the usual approach is to perform a treatment based on removing supra- and subgingival tartar and plaque, making dietary changes, and implementing stricter oral hygiene. Sometimes, tooth extractions are necessary. It is important to take your pet to the veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis.
In conclusion, although in specific situations halitosis is not a cause for concern, if it persists over time or is a very intense, even putrid, odor, it is necessary to seek veterinary medical attention to rule out possible underlying health problems.
At IVeM, we have the latest advances in veterinary technology, and our team of experts will know how to care for and treat your specific case. We accompany you from the initial diagnosis to the treatment of the dental condition that is affecting our patient's quality of life.
