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Sialadenitis (Salivary Gland Inflammation) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of disease: Head/Neck

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Sialadenitis is an inflammation of the salivary glands in dogs, which can be caused by various factors and leads to swelling, pain, and impaired function of the affected glands.

Das Wichtigste auf einen Blick

Sialadenitis in dogs is an inflammation of the salivary glands that can be triggered by infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens., traumatic, or immunological causes. The most common pathogens include bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. that enter the glands through the blood or directly from the mouth. Viruses and autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus. can also cause inflammation. Tumors or cysts are rarer causes that can lead to inflammation by blocking the glandular ducts. Symptoms include swelling of the salivary glands, difficulty swallowing, and fever. A diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through clinical examinations and imaging techniques such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions..

Treatment depends on the cause: antibiotics for bacterial infections, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. to relieve symptoms. Surgical intervention may be necessary for abscesses or severe injuries. Autoimmune causes are treated with immunosuppressants. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is generally good if the disease is recognized and treated in time. Preventive measures include good oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. hygiene, regular veterinary check-ups, and the avoidance of traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries.. Long-term research focuses on improving diagnostic and treatment methods as well as on developing preventive measures to reduce the risk of Sialadenitis.

Ursachen

The salivary glands are important exocrine glands that produce saliva, which plays a significant role in digestion and oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. hygiene. In dogs, there are several salivary glands, including the parotid, mandibular, and sublingual glands. Inflammation of these glands can impair their function and lead to various clinical symptoms.

The main causes of Sialadenitis in dogs can be infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens., traumatic, or immunological in nature. Bacterial infections are common, with bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. entering the glands either through the bloodstream or through direct spread from the mouth. ViralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections can also play a role, although they are less common. TraumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries. or physical injuries from external influences or after dental procedures can also lead to inflammation of the glands.

Autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., in which the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. attacks the body’s own glands, are another possible cause. Less often, tumors or cysts can also cause inflammation by blocking the glandular ducts or infiltratingInfiltration refers to the penetration or accumulation of cells or fluids in a tissue or area that is normally free of them. This can occur as part of inflammatory reactions, Tumors, or other pathological processes. the glandular tissue.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

Dogs with Sialadenitis often show significant swelling in the area of the affected glands, which may be clearly visible from the outside. The swellings are often painful and can cause the dog to feel uncomfortable or refuse to move its head or eat.

Other symptoms may include fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Some dogs also show excessive salivation or difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, Abscess formation can occur, which opens through pus discharge.

An unusual odor from the mouth or a change in the consistency of the saliva may also indicate inflammation. Occasionally, hardening of the glands can occur, which feel firm to the touch.

Diagnose

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Sialadenitis is initially made through a thorough clinical examination by a veterinarian. The glands are palpated and examined for signs of swelling, pain, or abnormalities.

For further clarification, imaging techniques such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or X-ray can be used to assess the structure of the glands more precisely and to rule out other causes such as tumors. In some cases, a computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions. scan may also be required.

A fine needle aspiration or biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. of the gland can be performed for microscopic examination of the cells to make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. Blood tests can detect inflammatory markers or infections, while a saliva culture can help identify bacterial pathogens.

Therapie

The treatment of Sialadenitis depends on the underlying cause. For bacterial infections, antibiotics are used to combat the pathogens. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. can also be administered to relieve the symptoms.

In cases where an abscess has formed, surgical drainageDrainage refers to the removal of fluid from body cavities, Wounds, or inflamed areas, often using a tube or other device. It is used to prevent infection and promote healing. may be necessary to remove the pus and promote healing. In the case of traumatic injuries, surgical correction or immobilization may be necessary.

For autoimmune causes, immunosuppressants or corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions. can be used to regulate the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body.. In extreme cases where the gland is severely damaged, surgical removal of the affected gland may be necessary.

Prognose und Nachsorge

The prognosis for dogs with Sialadenitis varies depending on the cause and severity of the disease. With timely diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and appropriate treatment, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is generally good, and most dogs recover completely.

In cases where the inflammation is caused by a tumor or a serious autoimmune disease, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. may be more guarded and depends on the response to therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..

Long-term complications are rare, but in chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. cases, permanent changes in the glandular tissue can occur, requiring ongoing treatment.

Prävention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of Sialadenitis in dogs includes good oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. hygiene and regular veterinary check-ups to detect and treat dental problems early. Avoiding traumaA trauma refers to a physical injury or damage caused by external force. Traumas can range from simple cuts to severe multiple injuries. to the head and neck area can also be helpful.

In dogs with a known predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., regular monitoring and early treatment of symptoms is important to prevent inflammation of the glands.

A balanced diet and the avoidance of infections, for example through vaccinations or hygiene measures, can also help to minimize the risk of Sialadenitis.

Ausblick auf aktuelle Forschung

Current research on Sialadenitis in dogs focuses on various aspects of the disease, including the causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment options. An important focus is on identifying the underlying causes that can lead to inflammation of the salivary glands. Here, scientists are investigating both infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. and non-infectious factors. Infections caused by bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., viruses, or fungi can lead to Sialadenitis. In addition, autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus. and systemic diseases are being investigated as possible causes.

Another major field of research is the improvement of diagnostic methods. Traditionally, the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made on the basis of clinical symptoms and the examination by the veterinarian. New imaging techniques such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. are being investigated for their effectiveness and accuracy in order to enable more accurate diagnoses. Molecular diagnostic tests that can identify specific markers for inflammation or infections are also the subject of current studies.

In the field of therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., both drug-based and surgical approaches are being investigated. Current studies are examining the effectiveness of newer antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain.. Researchers are also investigating alternative therapies, such as the use of phytotherapy or acupuncture, to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. In addition, the role of nutrition and lifestyle changes in the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment of Sialadenitis is being investigated.

In the long term, research aims to develop preventive measures to reduce the risk of Sialadenitis. These include vaccines against specific pathogens that may be associated with the disease, as well as genetic studies to identify susceptible dog breeds or individuals. The hope is that these efforts will help to both reduce the incidenceIncidence refers to the number of new cases of a disease or condition that occur within a specific time period in a specific population group. It provides information about the risk of contracting the disease. of the disease and improve the quality of life of affected dogs.

Häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQs)

What is Sialadenitis in dogs? Sialadenitis is an inflammation of the salivary glands in dogs. This condition can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory conditions. The mandibular salivary glands or the salivary glands under the ears are often affected.
What symptoms occur with Sialadenitis? Symptoms include swelling in the area of the affected salivary glands, Pain when eating or touching the neck region, fever, loss of appetite, and in some cases purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness. discharge from the mouth.
How is Sialadenitis diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made by a thorough clinical examination by the veterinarian. Imaging techniques such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or X-ray can be used to confirm the diagnosis. A fine needle aspiration or biopsy of the gland can help determine the cause of the inflammation.
What treatment options are there? The treatment depends on the cause of the Sialadenitis. Antibiotics are usually used for bacterial infections. CorticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions. or other immunosuppressants may be required for autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus.. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected gland may be necessary.
Can Sialadenitis heal on its own? In some mild cases, Sialadenitis may resolve on its own, especially if the cause is resolved. However, any inflammation of the salivary glands should be examined by a veterinarian to avoid complications and ensure appropriate treatment.
How can I help my dog recover from Sialadenitis? To support recovery, make sure your dog gets enough rest and has a stress-free environment. A soft, easily digestible diet can help reduce Pain when eating. Follow the veterinarian’s instructions regarding medication exactly.
Are there risk factors for the development of Sialadenitis? Yes, certain factors can increase the risk, including previous infections, injuries to the oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. cavity, or the presence of autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus.. Certain breeds may also be more susceptible.
How can I reduce the risk of Sialadenitis in my dog? Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect early signs of inflammation. Good oralOral means "through the mouth" and refers to the intake of food, medication, or other substances through the mouth. In veterinary medicine, many treatments are administered orally. hygiene and a balanced diet can also help reduce the risk. Avoid giving your dog hard or sharp-edged objects that could cause injuries in the mouth.
Is Sialadenitis contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious.? Sialadenitis itself is not contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious.. However, if it is caused by an infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. cause such as bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. or viruses, these pathogens may be transmitted to other animals under certain circumstances. Good hygiene and isolation of sick animals can minimize the risk of spread.
What is the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for a dog with Sialadenitis? The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the cause and severity of the disease. With early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and appropriate treatment, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is generally good. However, chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. or untreated cases can lead to complications that affect the quality of life.