Monitor
Bad Breath in Dogs and Cats
Persistent bad breath almost always means dental disease or illness — it is not normal aging.
A sweet or acetone smell can mean diabetes or ketoacidosis — see a vet urgently.
Bad Breath in Dogs and Cats
Persistent bad breath almost always means dental disease or illness — it is not normal aging.
- •Dental tartar and gingivitis
- •Periodontal disease, root abscess
- •Chronic kidney disease (ammonia smell)
- •Diabetes (sweet or acetone smell)
Possible causes
- •Dental tartar and gingivitis
- •Periodontal disease, root abscess
- •Chronic kidney disease (ammonia smell)
- •Diabetes (sweet or acetone smell)
- •Oral tumours
What to do at home
- Inspect gums and teeth in good light
- Book a dental cleaning under anaesthesia
- Brush teeth with pet toothpaste 3–4×/week
- Provide dental chews and toys
When to call the vet
- →Sudden-onset bad breath
- →Drooling, refusing dry food
- →Blood from the mouth, loose teeth
- →Acetone or ammonia odour
FAQ
Can I use human toothpaste?
No — fluoride and xylitol are toxic. Use only pet toothpaste in meat or poultry flavour.
How much does a dental cleaning cost in Russia?
Ultrasonic cleaning under anaesthesia: 4,000–9,000 ₽ depending on region and workload.