If You Smell This, Call Your Vet

We know it sounds odd to say it out loud, but as vets, we spend a surprising amount of time smelling things. Not just because we have to (though, yes — it’s part of the job), but because smell is often one of the first and clearest indicators that something is wrong.

Your pet might not be limping, crying, or showing obvious signs of illness — but if something smells a bit off, that’s your early warning system. And it’s one most owners overlook.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common smells that should raise a red flag — and what they might mean.

1. Bad Breath – It’s Not Just “Dog Breath”
We get it — pets don’t have minty-fresh breath. But if your dog or cat’s breath makes you want to back away, it’s probably not normal.

The most common cause? Dental disease.
Plaque, tartar and infected gums can smell truly awful. That bad smell is bacteria — and over time, that same bacteria can damage teeth, cause chronic pain, and even travel through the bloodstream, affecting the heart and kidneys.

You might also notice:
• Yellow or brown teeth
• Drooling
• Eating slower or dropping food
• Red or bleeding gums

If your pet’s breath has suddenly changed or just always seems foul — it’s time for a dental check. Bad breath is one of the clearest signs something’s brewing.

2. A Sweet or Yeasty Smell – Check the Ears
If your dog smells sort of like old bread, popcorn, or even slightly sweet — especially around the head — the culprit is probably an ear infection.

Yeast infections in the ears are common, especially in dogs with floppy ears, allergies, or lots of swimming time. And they often don’t look dramatic at first — just a bit red or itchy. But the smell is unmistakable once you’ve picked it up.

What to watch for:
• Head shaking or scratching
• Rubbing ears on furniture or the floor
• Discharge (brown, yellow, or waxy)
• Red, inflamed ear canals
• Sensitivity when touched

Ear infections can be stubborn, and if left untreated, they can lead to chronic pain and even hearing loss.

3. Fishy Smells – Time to Investigate

If your pet smells fishy, you might assume it’s something they rolled in — and it could be. But if the smell is coming from them, it’s often down to their anal glands, or could be a sign of skin or ear infections.

Anal glands are little scent sacs located on either side of the rectum. They should empty naturally, but sometimes they don’t – this can lead to impaction, infection, or even burst glands if left untreated. That fishy smell could be your warning your pet might need help.

Signs to watch for:
• Scooting across the floor
• Licking or biting around the tail area
• Swelling near the rectum

So… Should You Really Call the Vet Just Because of a Smell?
You know your pet. If something smells different — stronger, worse, or just off — it’s better to check than to wait. Many of these issues are easy to manage when caught early, but can lead to intense pain or illness if ignored.

Book a check-up at MK Vet Group if:
• Your pet has persistent bad breath
• You notice fishy odours
• You’re seeing discharge, swelling, or redness
• There’s scooting, licking, or scratching you can’t explain
• You’re just not sure — but they smells worse or different than usual!