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My cat's breath smells like fish. Is this a sign of a health issue?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 11 months old

since morning he have a bad breath smells like fish ?? what does that mean?? a sign of something ??

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 26th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Bad breath could be a sign of a bad tooth. Smelling like fish could be Iayl licking his anal glands (sacs inside the rectum). If these glands get full or infected, cats will lick the area. I recommend taking Iayl to the vet for an exam of his mouth and anal glands. He may need to have a dental cleaning or have the glands expressed. Good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on March 11th, 2017
This can be due to a build up of tartar around Moe's teeth, or it could be due to another dental problem such as a tooth root abscess or broken tooth. I would have Moe seen by a vet first thing on Monday to have his mouth examined. If he does have a dental problem causing his bad breath, then he will likely benefit from a dental cleaning, scaling, polishing.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on May 6th, 2018
Bad breath is a sign of dental problems, which can include severe gingivitis, a tooth root abscess, or a broken tooth. A cat can eat and drink normally whilst having a dental problem, so I recommend taking Chimpu into a vet. The vet can examine his mouth, and perform a dental cleaning, scaling, and polishing. Best of luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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