Halitosis, also called bad breath, is as an offensive odor emanating from the oral cavity. Bad breath is a common pet odor complaint. Causes are commonly related to the mouth and rarely related to other health problems. Bacteria is attracted to the tooth surface within hours of teeth cleaning. Within days, the plaque becomes mineralized producing calculus.
Periodontal disease is painful.
Some dogs and cats will have problems chewing hard food, others will paw at their mouths. Unfortunately most will not show any signs. Halitosis is easily diagnosed by smelling your dog or cats breath. If there is a disagreeable odor, halitosis is present. A veterinarian examination is necessary to diagnose the specific cause of bad breath.