Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an unpleasant or unusual smell coming from your pet’s mouth. You may notice that their breath has become stronger or smells different from usual.
You may also notice:
Dropping food or eating differently
Pawing at their mouth
A change in appetite or behaviour
Dental disease
Systemic illness – such as kidney disease, liver disease or diabetes
Foreign objects – something stuck in the mouth or throat
Mouth tumours
Lip fold infections
Further reading: Dental Disease in Dogs, Dental Disease in Cats, Kidney Disease in Cats, Diabetes in Cats, Diabetes in Dogs
Brush your pet’s teeth regularly using a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
Use appropriate dental products, such as dental chews or other products recommended for your pet.
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for your pet.
Arrange regular veterinary check-ups, particularly if your pet’s breath has changed or the bad breath persists.
Don’t use human toothpaste or other human oral hygiene products on your pet.
Don’t give sugary foods or treats in an attempt to improve or disguise bad breath.
Don’t ignore persistent bad breath, particularly if it is accompanied by other changes in your pet.
Contact your vet if:
Your pet has persistent or worsening bad breath
Your pet has other signs of a mouth problem, such as drooling, pawing at the mouth or changes in eating
Your pet has facial swelling or a lump in or around the mouth
Your pet has other changes in their health, such as weight loss, increased thirst or changes in appetite or behaviour
Written by Gillian Burkhill, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published September 2026 | Review date September 2029 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
