Gabriel has had bad breath ever since coming home from the vet after being neutered. Could there be a connection with bad breath and recovering from the surgery? Also, I want to look at the possibility of an ear infection. For the past couple of days he has been rubbing up against me with his ear and has been pawing at it. Could an infection in his ear contribute to bad breath?
I read somewhere that kittens teeth are not to be brushed. However, I know that some of you have kittens and have brushed their teeth. Also, I see kitty tooth brushing kits in the pet store. There are times I still get confused about all of this.
Oh gosh Regina - I have no idea about all of that - hopefully someone can help you out with some advice.
Regina,
Our vet told us that bad breath can be teeth/gum issues or possibly an upper respiratory infection. Our Sam had awful breath so I took him in. He still had lots of baby teeth and the gum line was red and inflammed. He also had some watery eyes, which we were told could also be teeth related. He was prescribed an antibiotic and his breath is some better. He still has a lot of baby teeth in the back so that may be causing the mouth odor but his watery eyes are better.
As for this being surgery related, I've not heard of this before, but that's not to say it may not be related. Phone your vet and ask them about it. I'm surprised they didn't check his ears while he was in there. The vet we use examines EVERYTHING if they have them under anethesia, especially ears and mouth.
As for brushing teeth - It's never too soon to start to brush your kids teeth. In fact the sooner you get them used to it the better it will be. I think more health issues arise from bad teeth/gum hygiene in the felines as they age than from any other cause. So, get that little brush out and go to it.......
I'll see if I can find the videos we used. It takes like four weeks of introduction to get the the actual teeth brushing part.
FOUND THE VIDEO - Play in parts or watch the entire thing. From Cornell University
http://partnersah.vet.cornell.edu/pet/fh...hing_teeth
At least call the vet. Ear mites could cause both symptoms, but the symptoms may not even be related. A vet visit will tell you if anything needs attention for now.