WHAT CAUSES FISHY CAT BREATH?
Reason for fishy cat breath
The most common cause of fishy cat breath is a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, typically found in plaque and tartar. Plaque forms on a cat’s teeth after they eat, and if it’s left to sit there, it starts to harden into tartar (calculus) within a few days. Bacteria in plaque and tartar can cause a fishy odor, leading to unpleasant breath.
Though not as common as poor dental care, sometimes gastrointestinal issues or health problems like kidney disease or diabetes can cause smelly cat breath. Whatever the cause, it’s important to remember that fishy cat breath is not normal and should not be ignored, as it can indicate underlying health issues that could be detrimental to your cat’s well-being.
How to fix fishy breath other than brushing?
Brushing is the gold standard for cat dental care, but research shows that very few cat owners actually brush their cats' teeth daily. If you're up for the challenge, it can make a big difference. (Just be sure to read up on how to brush your cat’s teeth to make the process easier for both of you.)
However, for most of us, it's a challenge just to keep up with our own dental routine, let alone add brushing a cat's teeth to the mix. It can be especially daunting if your cat resists, squirms away, or refuses to cooperate.
Fortunately, there are alternative methods to help keep your cat’s teeth clean and their breath fresh.
Water Additives for Cats: The Best No-Brush Fix for Fishy Cat Breath
If you’re among the many cat owners who aren’t brushing their cat’s teeth daily, don’t worry! You can still provide your cat with similar dental benefits, without the hassle, by using a water additive. Simply add it to your cat’s water bowl, and you’re all set!
When selecting a water additive, opt for one that is flavorless to ensure your cat won’t be deterred from drinking their water. It's also wise to avoid additives containing chlorhexidine gluconate, as it can have a bitter taste and may upset your cat’s stomach.
Oxyfresh Water Additive for Cats is an excellent choice because it caters to even the pickiest of pets. It's free from flavors, scents, and dyes, and is formulated with Oxygene® (stabilized chlorine dioxide), a non-toxic oxidizer that targets the bacteria responsible for plaque and bad breath in cats. There are no mint, clove, or other strong flavors—just a safe, gentle, and effective solution that works instantly to freshen fishy cat breath.
When combined with zinc acetate, a proven dental ingredient that helps combat plaque, Oxyfresh Water Additive offers a powerful duo to protect your cat from periodontal disease with every sip of water!
Find out more about the dental additive we use at PopCats!