Ask Dr. Paola – Bathrooms, Bad Breath & Thunder (July 28, 2025)

Welcome to our "Ask Dr. Paola" series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cat's health and well-being.

Whether you're a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion. ‎

Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Help! My Cat Loves to Join Me in the Bathroom!

“Dear Dr. Paola

Is there a reason why cats like to join humans in the bathroom? My little Miss Polly is like a moth to a flame when she hears the bathroom door open. "- Laura

Hi Laura,

Thank you for sharing this about Miss Polly; it really made me smile. Her fascination with the bathroom is actually a very common feline quirk, and while it may seem mysterious, there are some understandable reasons behind it: instinct and behavior.

Cats are naturally curious, and they tend to be especially intrigued by spaces that are usually closed off. When the bathroom door opens, it’s like opening a hidden treasure chest. Everything inside it, like the water, cool surfaces, different smells, and the sound of running water, can stimulate their senses. For some cats, the bathroom becomes a mini adventure zone. Others simply enjoy the routine and proximity to their human. Cats are territorial but also social in a very specific way, and your bathroom trips might be one of the few times you’re sitting still and not distracted. From Miss Polly’s perspective, it could feel like the perfect moment for some quiet companionship. And who knows, maybe they even sense your vulnerability! All jokes aside, in her mind, this might be the ideal moment to rub against your legs, voice a few demands, or leap onto the sink in hopes of some affection.

This brings in the element of habit and reinforcement. If Polly has followed you in before and received attention, affection, or even a cozy towel to lie on, she may have learned that the bathroom is a reliably rewarding place. So while it may feel a bit silly or intrusive at times, her bathroom enthusiasm is actually a little window into the complex, affectionate nature of cat-human relationships. But know that you are not the only cat parent out there with a loyal bathroom buddy. If you ever travel without Polly, you might be surprised by how weird it is to be all alone on those missions.

Wishing you privacy... unless Polly has other plans!

Dr. Paola

Help! My Cat Has Bad Breath

"Dear Dr. Paola

I’ve noticed my cat’s breath smells kind of bad lately. She’s still eating and acting normal. Is this something I should worry about?" - Misty

 

Hi Misty,

Even when a cat is eating well and behaving normally, persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can be an early indicator of underlying dental disease. In cats, the most common cause is periodontal disease, which begins with plaque buildup and can progress to gingivitis, tooth resorption, and even infection beneath the gumline. These issues often develop quietly, so a cat may not show obvious signs of pain or discomfort until the disease is quite advanced.

Less commonly, halitosis can be associated with systemic conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes, especially if the breath has a distinctly metallic or sweet odor. While Misty's appetite and energy are reassuring, bad breath alone warrants an oral health check. A veterinary exam, ideally including dental probing and possibly radiographs, is necessary to evaluate for periodontal disease or resorptive lesions, which are not always visible on a surface-level look. That’s why it's important to plan a visit with your veterinarian. Catching oral health issues early helps prevent pain and preserves overall well-being, as dental infections can affect organs like the heart and kidneys over time.

Please get her checked,

- Dr. Paola

How Can I Help My Cat's Anxiety During Storms?

“ Hi Dr. Paola

Thunder causes Missy to become very anxious. She starts meowing very loudly and goes and hides under the bed. Is there anything I can do to help her? Thank you!" – Russ

Hi Russ,

Missy’s reaction to thunder is actually quite common among cats. Loud, low-frequency sounds like thunder can be startling, especially for cats who are naturally more sensitive to changes in their environment. The way she hides and vocalizes is her way of trying to cope with fear, and while it’s distressing to witness, there are several gentle, effective ways to help her feel safer.

Start by creating a calm, secure hiding space where she feels protected, ideally in an interior room away from windows. You can use soft bedding, her favorite toys, and even an item of your clothing to make it feel familiar. Playing calming music or white noise can help mask the storm sounds. A synthetic feline pheromone diffuser can also be very helpful for reducing anxiety, especially if you use it consistently in her safe space. For some cats, calming nutraceuticals like L-theanine or alpha-casozepine can offer added support, though these should be used under the guidance of a veterinarian.

If her fear escalates over time or begins to affect her overall well-being, it may be worth discussing longer-term strategies with your veterinarian. In some cases, anti-anxiety medications might be appropriate depending on your cat’s response to other solutions. If you're not sure how severe her anxiety is, a telehealth veterinary service like PangoVet can help you evaluate her signs and determine the best next steps without the stress of a clinic visit. You're doing a wonderful job being attentive to Missy's needs, and with a few adjustments, you can help her feel more at ease when the skies rumble.

Best,

Dr. Paola