New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- Bad breath is one of those things most pet owners learn to live with. It rarely makes it on to the list of reasons for booking a veterinary appointment. More often than not, it is mentioned in passing. "While we're here, could you also check his breath?"

Most of the time that simple question uncovers dental disease. Occasionally, it uncovers something more significant. The smell of your pet's breath can provide important clues about what is happening inside their mouth-and sometimes elsewhere in their body.

The most common cause of a persistent change in breath is dental disease. By the age of three, most dogs and cats already have some degree of periodontal disease. Plaque forms on the teeth every day and if it is ...