Salivation or an increased flow of saliva, may be caused by a too liberal use of mercury, by a sudden check to the cutaneous secretion, by cold and damp, or by any influence that suddenly lowers the system. The disease may also arise from decayed teeth. It is commonly associated with can-crum oris and may be induced by some irritation of the salivary glands alone. Probably the more common cause of salivation is the improper use of mercury, either taken internally or used too freely externally. In prescribing the drug to dogs, it must be remembered that natures vary. Some are far more easily affected by its action than others, and a susceptibility of salivation and tendency to certain diseases often go together.

Symptoms

Swelling and inflammation of the salivary glands, tongue and throat, with a flow of peculiarly fetid saliva. Shallow ulcerations of the surface of the gums and of the inside of the cheeks. The gums are red, swollen and spongy. The teeth loosened and discolored. In the severest cases, the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines takes on much the same ulcerative action observed in the mouth.

The failure of strength and loss of flesh depend upon the exciting agency of the affection as well as the severity of the symptoms.

Treatment

Decayed teeth should be extracted; the bowels kept open and a generous diet be allowed. For a local application the tincture of myrrh, a saturated solution of chlorate of potassa, or brandy and water is sufficient.

If the cause of the salivatlon is mercury, the iodide of potassium in three grain doses, three times daily, should be administered. If no cause for the affection other than debility is apparent, tonics of iron, quinine, or cod liver oil should be persisted in, with the local applications.