Pet Bad Breath: Causes, Cures & Top Dental Care Tips for Dogs & Cats

If your pet’s breath makes you flinch, you’re not alone. Bad breath (halitosis) is common in dogs and cats, and the number one cause is dental disease. Plaque and tartar build up, gums get sore, and bacteria produce odours. Sometimes, though, smelly breath is a clue to something else going on in the mouth or elsewhere in the body, so it’s always worth a proper check with your vet.

Why does my pet have bad breath?

Most of the time it’s plaque and tartar irritating the gums, leading to gingivitis and then periodontal disease. Small and flat‑nosed breeds are at extra risk because of crowded teeth and anatomy that traps food and bacteria, which can make bad breath more likely in toy and brachycephalic dogs. Cats can develop dental problems too, including tooth resorption and stomatitis, which are very painful and very smelly.

There are also “non‑tooth” causes. Food smells (fishy diets give fishy breath), bits of bone or stick lodged in the mouth, lip‑fold skin infections, eating poo or scavenging, and infections or tumours in the mouth or throat can all stink. Beyond the mouth, certain smells can point to medical issues: breath that smells like ammonia/bleach may signal kidney disease; very sweet or nail‑varnish‑like breath can appear with diabetes; and severe liver problems can cause a musty, foul odour. If in doubt, book the vet.

Red flags you shouldn’t ignore

Persistent bad breath is itself a reason to see your vet. Book sooner if you notice sore or bleeding gums, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loose or broken teeth, face swelling, difficulty eating, weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, or a sudden change in the smell of the breath. PDSA advises that bad breath isn’t normal even in older pets, and without treatment it can get progressive worse.

Home care that actually helps

Daily tooth brushing is still the gold standard. A few friendly tips to make it stick. Start slow and reward often. Use a pet toothbrush or finger brush with pet‑safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste as this is poisonous for pets). Aim to build up to daily, but even three to four times a week makes a difference. If your pet isn’t keen yet, introduce toothpaste as a treat first, then the brush. To freshen breath between brushes or on busy days, a no‑rinse mouth spray is a handy helper. We love the Animology Dog Breath Dental Spray for quick freshness and support against pongy breath; brilliant after walks, post‑dinner, or when your dog won’t tolerate a brush just yet.

Chewing can make dental care much easier too and more enjoyable for your pet. Dental chews are fantastic for helping to reduce plaque and tartar build-up through their unique textures, which gently scrub the teeth as your pet chews. They also encourage healthy chewing habits and can help freshen breath, making those close-up cuddles much more pleasant! Offer a dental chew as a tasty reward after a brushing session, or simply as a daily treat to support their oral health.

When a professional clean is the right call

If there’s heavy tartar, gingivitis, loose teeth or persistent smell, your vet may recommend a dental procedure under anaesthetic. This allows a full mouth exam, dental X‑rays, scaling above and below the gumline, and polishing. Diseased teeth may need removal to stop pain and infection. Regular professional care plus home brushing is the most reliable recipe for long‑term fresh breath though.

Food, treats and habits

Diet matters, both for breath and for tooth health. A balanced complete diet with appropriate texture, controlled treats, and avoiding table scraps helps. If your pet scavenges outside, manage access and keep areas clean. Fish‑based foods can make breath smell fishy; that’s not necessarily harmful, but if the smell is strong or new, check the mouth anyway.

Simple weekly routine for fresher breath

Think of it like this: daily brush and chew, weekly mouth check, and regular vet exams. Brush daily if you can. Offer an appropriate dental chew most days and rotate textures to keep it interesting. Once a week, lift the lips and have a look: are gums pink not red, teeth smooth not furry, and breath neutral not eye‑watering? Book a dental check at least yearly, or more often for small breeds and seniors.

FAQs

Is bad breath ever normal? A brief pong after a fishy meal is normal, but ongoing smell isn’t. If it persists more than a few days, see your vet.

Can cats use dog toothpaste? Yes if it’s pet‑safe and fluoride‑free, but never use human toothpaste for any pet.

Will crunchy food alone clean teeth? Not completely. Kibble textures help, but brushing reaches the gumline where most trouble starts.

Final Thought: Ultimately, a happy pet often means a healthy pet, and that includes their pearly whites and fresh breath! By staying on top of their dental care, you're not just banishing those dreaded doggy or kitty whiffs, you're investing in their overall well-being and ensuring many more years of happy, healthy cuddles. So, let's get those smiles sparkling!