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Why is my cat's breath bad and he keeps sticking his tongue out?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 11 months old | 7.5 lbs

My Cat has always been fed crunchy food and soft food every other day. Recently his breath smells of something rotten and he has started to stick his tongue out. He won't let me near his mouth to 'brush' his teeth. Any suggestions?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jenny, DVM

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 27th, 2018

He may have an ulcer or sore in his mouth or on his tongue that is painful and burning. They often do not want their mouth opened or touched when that occurs. It creates an infection and the odor occurs and gets worse. I would schedule an appointment with your vet to have his mouth and teeth examined to see if there are any wounds or damaged teeth causing this in order to get proper medication
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 18th, 2016

    This sounds like stomatitis/gingivitis with the ulceration in the mouth and tongue which can be very painful for a cat. Antiinflammatory medication prescribed by your vet and oral rinses to reduce the bacteria load in the mouth can help ease the discomfort and reduce the bad breath

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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