Why does my kitten's breath smell bad? Is it serious and what to do?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Emily, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 10th, 2017

  Your kitten could have an infection in his sinuses or even a dental issue causing this odor. I recommend your veterinarian do an exam as he may need antibiotics or even some teeth removed if they have an abscess beneath them.

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on February 21st, 2018

  The odor can be due to periodontal disease, endocrine disorder (diabetes) or metabolic disorder. You will need to have Rissoto physically examined by your veterinarian to diagnose the exact cause(s). This may require submitting blood and urine samples to diagnose infection and to assess major organ function.
  The article below may shed more light on the situation.
  
  https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-does-my-cat-s-breath-smell-so-bad/

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on December 5th, 2018

  If he is less than 8 months of age, he likely is losing his kitten teeth, and this causes mild bleeding of the gums that can smell not so pleasant. You can use a water additive from your veterinary office or pet store that can help freshen his breath during this period and also use a cat tooth brush to gently brush his teeth 2-3 times a week.
  Other than that, this phase shall pass and his breath should go back to normal once all his adult teeth are in.
  
  Another possibility is that he has a condition called halitosis, in which case the water additives mentioned above are the recommended course of treatment to help resolve the bad breath, which usually comes from the back of his tongue.
  
  Best wishes with your kitty moving forward. Take care!

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful