Cats are supposed to groom themselves and be very clean animals; in fact, they sometimes spend hours licking their fur. With this in mind, it is puzzling and a bit bewildering when your fresh-smelling feline friend starts to smell like something from outer space. If you find yourself asking, "Why does my cat smell?", rest assured that you are definitely not alone. The stench from a cat could be due to some harmless and serious reasons. Let us go through the reasons and the things you can do to make sure your cat smells sweet again.

Anal Glands and Stenches – Tail of Horror

Probably the most common odor that cats are accused of is due to their anal glands. These little sacks at the end of a cat's anus usher out a foul-smelling liquid the animal uses for marking purposes. The glands typically express themselves in the natural course while defecating. If impacted or infected, they can give off a strong smell resembling fish.

What to Do: If you find that your cat is spending way too much time scooting or licking his butt, then it's probably time to get him into the vet. He will express the glands or treat infections that may have developed.

Dental Dilemmas: Bad Breath and Oral Health

Another fairly common odor associated with cats is bad breath or halitosis. Similar to humans, cats can also develop dental problems, such as accumulating tartar, catching gingivitis, or even tooth decay; these can all lead to an overgrowth of bacteria that may produce foul-smelling breath.

What to Do: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are critical. Brushing your cat's teeth or giving dental treats may be successful in preventing the buildup of plaque. If your cat develops persistent bad breath, bring the cat to your vet for a thorough dental examination.

Skin and Coat: The Mystery of Stinky Fur

A cat's skin and coat generally serve as a good indicator of his overall health. If your cat grooms excessively but develops a greasy coat or begins to smell somewhat musty, several factors may come into play, including:

• Skin Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can sometimes create quite a stench. Look for redness, irritation, or even loss of hair.
• Allergies: Allergies can cause excessive licking, which inflames the skin and creates foul odors.
• Parasites: Fleas and mites may itch, then secondarily infect the skin with foul odors.

What to Do: Most of these odor issues could be averted by keeping the cat's coat clean and healthy through regular grooming. Consult your vet if you notice any alteration in the skin or coat of your cat for proper diagnosis and a treatment plan.

 GI Issues: Gas and Fetid Feces

Sometimes, it is not the odor of the cat but the litter box. If your cat passes very foul-smelling stools or if your cat has flatulence, it can be an indication of a dietary problem, food allergy, or GI issue.

What to Do: It could be a dietary change. Your vet can suggest a more digestible food or pinpoint allergens. Regular veterinary visits will ensure your cat's digestive tract is always in top shape.

 Ear Infections: The Astonishing Cause of Stench

Ear infections can easily occur in cats and usually result in a pungent, foul smell. Basically, these are usually caused by bacteria, yeast, or even mites. Shaking of the head, scratching of ears, and foul-smelling discharge characterize an infection.

What to Do: If you suspect that your cat may have an infection in his ears, he must be taken to a veterinarian. The vet is going to clean his ears and later prescribe medication to treat this infection.

 Urinary Tract Problems: When Urine Smells Funny

Cats with urinary infections or other urinary problems may occasionally have a very strong smell of ammonia. This can be combined with increased frequency of urination, blood in the urine, or urination outside the litter box. 

What to Do: UTIs and other urinary issues must be treated by a veterinarian quickly. The treatment generally involves a course of antibiotics and dietary alterations to reduce the chance of recurrence.

Environmental Causes: What is Outside the Cat?

This sometimes is due not to a medical issue but to something on the cat. Cats are curious, and at times they will rub in something that smells bad, from garbage to possibly outdoors, and you do not know about it.

What to Do: A good bath with some cat-safe shampoo should do the trick. In case your cat does not take a bath very well, use some of the pet-safe wipes to help remove some smells on the outside of the animal.

Other times, though, this smell may be indicative of a much more serious medical condition. In kidney disease, liver issues, and diabetes, the odor of the cat changes. This will often manifest in their breath or just their general body odor.

What to Do: A visit to the vet is quite important, more so if your cat has suddenly or persistently been scanty. Early detection and treatment of related health conditions help in the comfort of your kitty.

Conclusion: A Fresh Start for Your Feline Friend

Basically, cats are clean creatures; however, once in a while, even the best is overcome by a smell really gross. If the worst odor hits them, this can be caused by anything from anal gland problems to dental problems and skin infections, among others.

Grooming, good dieting, and regular visits to the vet are some hallmarks that characterize keeping your feline healthy and fresh. Keep in mind that if there is ever any doubt, you will always be on the safe side by consulting with your veterinarian about your cat's good health. Proper care will likely drive away the smell and have that sweet fragrance again from your feline friend.