Why Does My Cat Have a Funny Smell?
Cats are usually good at keeping themselves clean, so a new or unusual smell can sometimes be a sign that something needs attention. The source may be something simple, such as a dirty litter box or something stuck in your cat’s fur, but persistent odors can also be related to dental, skin, ear, or anal gland problems.
Finding where the smell comes from can help you determine what to do next.
Common Reasons Your Cat Smells Bad
Dirty Fur
Cats can get something unpleasant on their coat, especially around the rear end, paws, or belly. Long-haired cats may have more difficulty keeping certain areas clean.
Check your cat’s fur for:
- Stool or urine
- Food
- Grease or oily substances
- Litter
- Dirt or other debris
If the substance is safe to remove, gently clean the area with a damp cloth or use a cat-safe grooming product.
Dental Problems
A strong, unpleasant smell coming from your cat’s mouth can be associated with dental disease. Plaque and tartar can contribute to bad breath, and cats can develop painful problems involving their teeth and gums.
If your cat’s breath has suddenly become very foul or you notice drooling, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, or changes in appetite, contact your veterinarian.
Ear Problems
A bad smell coming from the ears can be associated with an ear infection or another ear problem. You may also notice redness, discharge, frequent scratching, or head shaking.
Do not put household products or cotton swabs deep into your cat’s ears. A veterinarian can determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Skin Problems
Skin infections, wounds, allergies, or excessive oil can sometimes cause an unusual odor. You may notice redness, scabs, hair loss, greasy fur, or increased scratching along with the smell.
A persistent skin odor should be evaluated by a veterinarian, particularly if your cat appears uncomfortable.
Anal Gland Problems
Cats have anal glands that can occasionally become impacted or infected. Problems with these glands can produce a particularly strong odor around the rear end.
Signs may include scooting, excessive licking around the anus, swelling, discomfort, or discharge. If you notice these symptoms, have your cat examined rather than trying to squeeze the glands yourself.
Litter Box Odor
Sometimes the cat is not actually the source of the smell. A dirty litter box can make the surrounding area smell strongly.
Scoop the box regularly and clean it according to the litter manufacturer’s recommendations. If your cat suddenly starts urinating or defecating outside the box, however, don’t assume the problem is simply behavioral. Changes in bathroom habits can have medical causes.
What Should You Do if Your Cat Smells Bad?
Start by locating the source of the odor. Check your cat’s mouth, ears, coat, paws, and rear end without causing discomfort.
If the smell is caused by something on the fur, gently clean the area with an appropriate cat-safe product. Avoid using human perfumes, essential oils, or harsh cleaning products on your cat.
If the odor persists, keeps returning, or is accompanied by other symptoms, schedule a veterinary examination.
When Should You Call a Veterinarian?
A strange smell deserves more attention when it appears suddenly or comes with other changes in your cat.
Contact your veterinarian if your cat has:
- A persistent or worsening odor
- Bad breath along with eating difficulties
- Ear discharge or frequent head shaking
- Skin sores, swelling, or hair loss
- Discharge from the rear end
- Pain or obvious discomfort
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Lethargy or unusual behavior
A veterinarian can identify the source of the odor and determine whether treatment is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my cat smell bad all of a sudden?
A sudden odor can come from something stuck in the fur, a dirty coat, or a health problem involving the mouth, ears, skin, or rear end. Look for the location of the smell and any other changes in behavior.
Why does my cat smell like poop?
Your cat may have fecal material stuck to its fur, particularly around the rear. Long-haired cats can be especially prone to this. Persistent odor can also have other causes, so a veterinary examination may be appropriate if cleaning does not resolve it.
Why does my cat’s breath smell bad?
Bad breath can occur with dental disease and other oral problems. Persistent foul breath should be discussed with a veterinarian.
Can I bathe my cat to get rid of the smell?
A bath may help if something unpleasant is on the coat, but bathing will not treat an underlying medical cause. Use only products specifically made for cats and avoid human shampoo or fragrances.
The Bottom Line
A funny smell from your cat can have a simple explanation, such as dirty fur or a litter box, but persistent odors may indicate a dental, ear, skin, or other health problem. Locate the source, avoid harsh products, and contact your veterinarian if the smell continues or occurs with other symptoms.