Halitosis in dogs and cats
Oral malodor (halitosis) is commonly reported in dogs and cats and is perceived by many owners to be a significant problem. Moreover, malodor (or bad breath in dogs and cats) is considered to be a precursor or manifestation of more serious dental disease and may be the first clinical sign that owners report to their veterinarians. As in humans, oral malodor in dogs and cats can be caused by oral or non-oral factors. Non-oral etiologies include gastrointestinal, lung, and systemic disease.In the majority of cases, the predominant source of halitosis in dogs and cats is within the oral cavity. Microbial metabolism or protein-containing substances such as food debris, exfoliated epithelium, saliva and blood result in the production of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). These compounds, particularly mercaptyl sulfide and hydrogen sulfide, produce breath malodor when exhaled. In addition to the microbial flora of the mouth, two other factors that influence the production of malodor are saliva pH and glucose concentration. Specifically, saliva with a low pH and relatively high glucose concentration suppresses odor formation, while the formation of saliva with an alkaline pH and low glucose concentration is associated with increased production of odor. Check out these products for more information on how to control your pet's halitosis.
Breath malodor in dogs and cats is also associated with gingivitis and periodontis. A recent study with dogs demonstrated significant correlations between the production of VSCs in the mouth, the amount of plaque and calculus accumulation on the tooth surface, and the severity of gingivitis. Another study found that dogs with a high degree of oral malodor were more likely to have moderate to severe periodontal disease when compared with dogs with less malodor. This association is further demonstrated by evidence that veterinary periodontal therapy causes a significant reduction in previously established oral malodor.
One explanation for this is that chronic inflammation and tissue damage provides increased protein substrate for microorganisms in the mouth, enhancing the production of VSCs. The heavier plaque that occurs with dental disease may also provide a favorable anaerobic environment and additional substrate for the formation of VSCs. The VScs may also have detrimental effects on the structural integrity of epithelial tissue in the mouth, further contributing to the pathogenesis and progression of periodontal disease.
We recommend this product:
PetAlive OralHealth Mouth Spray
MORE VETERINARY ARTICLES
-
Clinical signs of acute renal failure symptoms (ARF) are often nonspecific and include lethargy, depression, anorexia, vomiting , diarrhea...
-
A common cause of nutritional problems in dogs and cats is overfeeding or feeding inappropriate foods. Overfeeding can lead to rapid growth ...
-
Oral Pain 1. Fractured bones or teeth. 2. Trauma. 3. Periodontitis or caries (especially cats). 4. Osteomyelitis. 5. Other causes ...
-
The Bloodhound is a dog almost guaranteed to be calm and unobtrusive on virtually all occasions, yet be amenable to training. It won't d...
-
If you'd like a large, tranquil guard dog that is somewhat unusual, consider an Akita. You can count on effective guarding by the Akita ...
-
Infertility in dogs | Canine Infertility Normal seminal quality, normal desire to breed ( libido ), and normal ability to mate are all ne...
-
The precordium in pets is palpated by placing the palm and fingers of each hand on the corresponding side of the animal’s chest wall over t...
-
Colitis in dogs have many causes (e.g., bacteria, diet , parasites ). The underlying cause is seldom diagnosed because this problem tends t...
-
In dogs, most soft tissue masses of the oral cavity are neoplasms , and most of these are malignant (i.e., melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma...
-
Domestication of cats and dogs was probably influenced by the enticement of food. Formation of a mutually beneficial association between Egy...