
Milo’s breath smells really bad. something like fish and whenever he cleans himself his whole body smells like his breath or even shit sometimes. what do i do?


Bad breath in a young cat like Milo, especially when it smells fishy or fecal and transfers to his fur, is often linked to dental issues, digestive problems, or infections. Since this has been ongoing for two months, it's not just a passing issue and likely needs direct intervention.
One of the most common causes is retained baby teeth or early-stage dental disease. At six months old, Milo should be finishing his teething process. If baby teeth haven't fallen out properly, they can trap food and bacteria, leading to bad breath and inflammation. You can gently check his mouth for swollen gums, redness, or teeth that look misaligned or doubled up.
Another possibility is an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth or gut. If he has tartar buildup, inflamed gums, or even a minor mouth infection, this can cause a persistent odor. If the smell is more like feces, he might be experiencing gastrointestinal issues, like bacterial imbalance, acid reflux, or even coprophagia (eating poop, either his own or from a littermate).
To help, start by wiping his mouth and fur with a damp cloth daily, especially after meals. Brushing his teeth with pet-safe toothpaste a few times a week can help if he tolerates it. Adding an oral health water additive or dental treats can also reduce bacteria. How many times a week does he brush his teeth?
Keep an eye out for other concerning signs. If he has swollen or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, weight loss, excessive drooling, or frequent vomiting, these are signs that the issue could be more serious and might require medical attention. Unusual lethargy, a persistent runny nose, or difficulty swallowing could also indicate an infection or systemic issue.
If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to come back to us! Thank you.
Issue details
Pet information
