What are the reasons for bad breath and drooling in cats?

Bad breath and drooling in cats may be caused by functional indigestion, gingivitis, periodontitis, oral ulcers, and other reasons. When a cat exhibits drooling and bad breath, it is necessary to pay attention and take the cat to a regular pet hospital for related checks. By understanding the cause of the disease, proper treatment can be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.

Functional Indigestion

Usually caused by long-term excessive eating and insufficient gastrointestinal motility, it presents symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and acid reflux. When stomach acid refluxes, it produces an acidic smell, causing bad breath and stimulating saliva secretion, leading to drooling. Treatment involves taking digestive enzymes as prescribed by a doctor.

Gingivitis

A non-specific inflammation of the gums caused by dental plaque, it manifests as bleeding gums when brushing teeth or chewing hard objects. It is accompanied by a swollen sensation. If not improved in time, it may lead to local abscesses, causing drooling and bad breath. Treatment involves taking pet-specific antibiotics under a doctor's guidance.

Periodontitis

A chronic inflammation occurring in the periodontal tissue, it is mainly caused by bacterial invasion of the periodontal tissue from dental plaque. Symptoms include swollen gums, loose teeth, and periodontal pockets filled with pus. When the periodontal pockets become severely infected, they produce a foul smell and cause drooling. Treatment involves taking penicillin, tetracycline, or macrolide antibiotics as prescribed.

Oral Ulcers

Occurring as localized ulcerative lesions in the oral mucosa, they cause circular ulcers on the mucosa, with significant pain. Eating causes the pain to intensify, leading to drooling and bad breath. Treatment involves taking immunomodulators and antibiotics as directed.

During treatment, pay attention to the oral hygiene of the cat. After eating, promptly rinse the cat's mouth or brush its teeth to reduce food residues and prevent disease exacerbation.