Understanding Ptyalism: Causes of Excessive Salivation in Animals

Dr. Zeke Zekoff
Feb 18
3 min read

Excessive salivation, also known as ptyalism, is a condition that affects many animals and can indicate a range of underlying health concerns. From neurological disorders to metabolic diseases, there are multiple causes that pet owners and veterinarians should be aware of. Identifying the root cause of ptyalism is essential to provide the appropriate treatment and care. Here, we explore the key causes of excessive salivation in animals.

Neurologic Causes

Neurological conditions can interfere with an animal’s ability to control or swallow saliva effectively. Some common neurologic causes include:

Myasthenia Gravis – A disorder that leads to muscle weakness, affecting swallowing.
Trigeminal Neuropraxia – Damage to the trigeminal nerve that impairs mouth function.
Facial Paralysis – Prevents proper movement of facial muscles, leading to drooling.
Seizure Disorders – Conditions such as epilepsy may trigger intermittent drooling episodes.
Vestibular Disease – Affects balance and coordination, sometimes impacting swallowing ability.

Infectious Causes

Certain infections can lead to excessive salivation, including:

Rabies – A serious and fatal viral infection; keeping pets up-to-date on vaccinations is crucial.
Tetanus and Botulism – Bacterial infections that affect muscle control and swallowing.
Severe Periodontal Disease – Infections in the mouth and gums can lead to pain and excess saliva.

Drug-Induced Ptyalism

Some medications and substances can stimulate excessive salivation. These include:

Opiates – Certain painkillers can cause drooling as a side effect.
Bitter Medications – Unpleasant-tasting medications may trigger excessive salivation.

Metabolic Causes

Metabolic disorders can also lead to ptyalism, including:

Hepatic Encephalopathy – A liver-related condition that can cause neurological symptoms, including excessive drooling.
Portosystemic Shunt – An abnormal blood vessel affecting liver function.
Uremia and Secondary Uremic Stomatitis – Kidney failure-related conditions that can lead to mouth irritation and excessive salivation.

Salivary Gland Disorders

Issues affecting the salivary glands can contribute to excessive drooling, such as:

Sialoliths (Salivary Stones) – Blockages in the salivary glands.
Sialocele/Sialoadenitis – Inflammation or swelling of the salivary glands.
Neoplasms – Tumors that affect salivary production.

Oropharyngeal and Gastrointestinal Causes

Problems in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract can lead to excessive salivation:

Foreign Bodies – Objects lodged in the mouth or throat.
Dental Issues – Ulcers, infections, or broken teeth can stimulate saliva production.
Gastrointestinal Conditions – Hiatal hernia, esophageal strictures, ulcers, and nausea can all contribute to excessive drooling.

Trauma and Post-Surgical Effects

Physical trauma or surgical procedures affecting the mouth and jaw can lead to temporary or prolonged drooling:

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Luxation – A dislocation of the jaw joint.
Mandibular Fracture – A broken jawbone can impair normal mouth function.
Post-Anesthesia Effects – Some animals drool excessively after surgery due to lingering anesthesia effects.

Toxins and Immune-Mediated Conditions

Exposure to harmful substances or immune-related disorders can also cause excessive salivation:

Toxic Ingestion – Chemicals like organophosphates, caustic substances, or venomous bites.
Immune-Mediated Diseases – Conditions such as Chronic Ulcerative Paradental Stomatitis (CUPS) or pemphigus.

Behavioral Causes

Not all cases of excessive drooling are medical. Behavioral factors can also play a role:

Pavlovian Response to Food – Anticipation of food can trigger excessive salivation.
Reaction to Insect Bites – Some animals drool excessively in response to fire ant bites or other irritants.

Final Thoughts

Ptyalism in animals can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from mild behavioral triggers to serious medical conditions. If excessive salivation persists, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a thorough evaluation. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in ensuring the health and well-being of your pet.