The problem of bad breath in canines is quite widespread. It could make morning licks less appealing if your dog has terrible breath. It’s not a good idea to disregard the smell coming from your dog’s mouth. In many cases, the stinky breath of your pet could be an early warning signal that your dog is experiencing different health problems.
It is a good idea to dig into the details to know the source of your dog’s bad breath and what do to prevent and treat it before you give your dog a treat for its teeth. This will give you an overall picture of your dog’s health.
What does the smell of your pet’s breath suggest about health?
Many dog owners consider the smell of their pet’s breath as usual because of how frequently it occurs. Dogs’ bad breath can result from dental issues or an overactive gut bacterium. Since bad breath can be the first sign of a health problem, we’ll look into the possible causes of pet foul breath.
1. Periodontal Disease
Dental problems are the most frequent reason dogs have poor breath. In animals, just as in people, the accumulation of plaque and tartar could cause gingivitis caused by bacteria, which manifests as bad breath.
Periodontal problems can result from failing to follow good dental hygiene practices over time. Tartar and plaque can cause gum recession, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to increase in size and cause dental infections. You can set an appointment online and learn more about dental services offered by reputable facilities.
2. Diabetes
A sour odor on your dog’s breath might indicate diabetes, a condition with high blood sugar levels. The excess sugar levels in the blood can make a dog’s breath smell sweet, while too many bacteria can make it smell bitter or musty.
Diabetes is a disorder that usually produces a range of symptoms, which include excessive drinking, blurry eyes, and urinary tract infections. Take a trip to a reputable facility like Clearlake Veterinary Clinic if any of these signs appear. Like human diabetes, dogs with diabetes are treatable with medications.
3. Tumor
Oral tumors could be another reason your pet’s breath isn’t as fresh. These tumors result from the rapid expansion and proliferation of cells in your pet’s mouth.
Sometimes the rate of tissue growth is higher than the amount at which your body can give adequate blood flow to the area. When these tumors are deprived of oxygen, they begin to die. When they occur, your dog’s horrible breath may smell of dead matter. For your older pets, a geriatric veterinarian in Clearlake can help you assess the condition of your pet and the available treatment for them.
4. Liver Disease
Toxins may persist in the bloodstream when the liver isn’t functioning correctly. The same is true for the lungs. It could be accompanied by a robust foul smell when exhaling. Other symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and mouth), weakness and decreased stability, and in rare circumstances, seizures, may be present in cases of liver illness.
Liver disease may develop as we age, or it could be acquired. On the other hand, the oxidative stress factor plays a significant role in developing liver problems. The most common causes of oxidative stress include being overweight, eating lots of processed foods, being near radiation, or being in an area with a lot of pollution.
5. Kidney Disease
Urea is a metabolite that is produced in the body as a result of the process of breaking down protein. The kidneys are responsible for removing urea from the bloodstream. However, if they aren’t working at full capacity, the urea level in blood levels rises.
Halitosis may develop if an abnormally large amount of urea is present in the bloodstream. The smell has been described as being similar to ammonia.
