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Bad Breath in Dogs & Cats

Persistent foul odor from the mouth (halitosis). Usually indicates dental disease but can signal systemic illness.

Common Causes

  • Periodontal disease
  • Tooth abscess
  • Oral tumor
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Foreign body in mouth

Red Flags

  • Sweet or fruity breath (diabetes)
  • Ammonia-like breath (kidney disease)
  • Facial swelling
  • Bleeding from mouth
  • Difficulty eating or dropping food

When to See a Vet

If bad breath is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by drooling, difficulty eating, or facial swelling.

🐕 Bad Breath by Dog Breed

🐈 Bad Breath by Cat Breed

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