Every cat owner loves to snuggle up with their furry friend and enjoy their soft, warm fur.
But what happens when your cat starts smelling…fishy? You might find yourself worried, wondering what’s going on and how to help.
A Fishy Scent: A Cause for Concern?
Why does my cat smell like fish, A fishy odor in cats can be a sign of a variety of conditions, ranging from simple dietary changes to serious medical problems.
It’s important to pay attention to your cat’s scent and look for any other concerning symptoms.
Understanding the Root of the Smell
Cats typically have a mild, slightly musky odor. A fishy smell is often a sign of something out of the ordinary.
Common Causes of a Fishy Smell in Cats
Here are some common reasons why a cat might smell fishy:
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI can cause the urine to have a strong, fishy odor.
- Kidney Disease: Kidney disease can also cause the urine to have a strong, fishy odor. This is because the kidneys are not able to properly filter waste products from the blood, which can lead to a buildup of toxins in the urine.
- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): FLUTD is a general term that refers to a variety of conditions that affect the lower urinary tract, including the bladder and urethra. It can cause inflammation, crystals, and blockages, which can lead to a change in urine odor.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can cause a buildup of ketones in the urine, which can lead to a sweet or fruity odor. However, in some cases, this smell can also be mistaken for a fishy odor.
- Diet: Some cats who eat a diet high in fish might have a fishy odor, particularly if they have a sensitive digestive system. However, this odor should be mild and not overly strong.
- Anal Gland Problems: The anal glands are two small glands located near the anus that secrete a strong-smelling fluid. If the anal glands become infected or impacted, they can produce a strong, fishy odor.
- Skin Infections: Bacterial or fungal skin infections can cause a foul odor, sometimes described as fishy or musty.
A Case Study: Whiskers’ Fishy Odor
Whiskers, a 6-year-old Maine Coon, started smelling fishy. His owner, David, noticed the smell after bathing him and was concerned.
“It wasn’t a strong odor,” David says, “but it was definitely a fishy smell, and I knew it wasn’t normal. Whiskers is usually a clean-smelling cat.”
David took Whiskers to the vet, who examined him and ran blood tests. The veterinarian suspected that Whiskers might have a urinary tract infection (UTI).
“The vet explained that UTIs can cause a strong fishy odor in the urine, and that’s why Whiskers smelled like fish,” David says.
The veterinarian prescribed antibiotics to treat the UTI, and Whiskers’ fishy odor cleared up after a few days.
Diagnosing a Fishy Smell in Cats
Diagnosing the cause of a fishy odor in cats requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian.
They will perform a physical exam, ask about your cat’s history, and often recommend some additional testing.
- Physical Examination: The veterinarian will assess your cat’s overall health, including their weight, body condition, and any signs of illness. They will check your cat’s temperature, pulse, and respiration, and they will examine their eyes, ears, nose, teeth, and gums. They will also feel your cat’s abdomen and lymph nodes for any abnormalities.
- Bloodwork: Blood tests can help identify a variety of medical conditions, including infections, kidney disease, liver disease, and diabetes.
- Urinalysis: A urinalysis can detect urinary tract infections, kidney problems, and other conditions. It can also help to assess the concentration of ketones in the urine, which can be a sign of diabetes.
- Fecal Examination: A fecal examination can detect intestinal parasites.
- Radiographs (X-rays): X-rays can be used to examine bones, organs, and other structures, helping to diagnose a variety of conditions.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs, providing a detailed view of the organs and surrounding structures.
Treating a Fishy Smell in Cats
Treatment for a fishy smell in cats depends on the underlying cause.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs are treated with antibiotics.
- Kidney Disease: Treatment for kidney disease often involves:
- Medications: Medications can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
- Dietary Changes: Dietary changes can help reduce stress on the kidneys.
- Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): Treatment for FLUTD might involve:
- Medications: Medications can help reduce inflammation, dissolve crystals, and manage pain.
- Dietary Changes: Dietary changes can help to prevent the formation of crystals.
- Diabetes: Treatment for diabetes often involves:
- Insulin: Insulin is used to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Dietary Changes: Dietary changes are essential for managing diabetes.
- Anal Gland Problems: Treatment for anal gland problems might involve:
- Anal Gland Expression: The veterinarian will manually express the anal glands to remove any impacted material.
- Medications: Medications can help to reduce inflammation and infection.
- Skin Infections: Treatment for skin infections might involve:
- Medications: Antibiotics or antifungal medications can be used to treat skin infections.
- Medicated Shampoos: Medicated shampoos can help to clean the skin and reduce infection.
Tips for Caring for Why Does My Cat Smell Like Fish
- Monitor Your Cat’s Behavior: Pay close attention to your cat’s behavior, especially if they’re having difficulty urinating or showing other signs of illness.
- Provide Fresh Water: Make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times.
- Consult a Veterinarian Immediately: If you notice any signs of a fishy smell, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Conclusion
A fishy smell in cats can be a sign of a variety of conditions, but it’s important to remember that your cat is still your loving companion.
By understanding the causes and seeking professional help, you can help your cat receive prompt veterinary care and increase their chances of a good outcome.