If your dog has diarrhea and their mouth is watering at the same time, we outline the potential causes of dog diarrhea and mouth watering, as well as what to do and when to seek help.
Here’s why dog diarrhea and mouth watering occurs
Dog diarrhea and mouth watering can occur together due to a number of illnesses and health issues that cause these symptoms which include gastrointestinal infections, diet, food allergies, medication side effects, illness, stress, and poisoning.
Dog diarrhea and mouth-watering in dogs
Mouth watering in dogs, also known as hypersalivation, is the excessive production of saliva in the mouth. It can be a normal response to certain triggers, such as the sight or smell of food, but it can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition.
Mouth-watering can be caused by nausea, dental problems, poisoning, certain medications, a natural characteristic of a dog breed, and behavioral issues like anxiety.
Dog diarrhea refers to the passing of loose, watery stools, several times a day and is a symptom of different diseases or conditions.
Dog diarrhea and mouth watering are both common symptoms that can occur in dogs, often at the same time due to underlying health conditions.
In some cases, these symptoms can be related. For example, if a dog has eaten something toxic or indigestible, it can cause both symptoms.
Is it normal for dogs to diarrhea and drool?
It is not normal for dogs to have diarrhea with their mouth-watering but also not uncommon. It is normal for a dog to experience occasional diarrhea or mouth-watering, such as after eating something they shouldn’t have, or in response to certain triggers, like the smell of food.
However, if a dog is experiencing diarrhea and mouth-watering at the same time, it may be a symptom of an underlying health condition.
Causes of dog diarrhea and mouth watering
Gastrointestinal infections
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can cause inflammation in the stomach and intestines, leading to diarrhea and mouth-watering.
These infections can be caused by a variety of different microorganisms, including bacterial and viral infections as well as intestinal parasites such as roundworms and tapeworms.
These types of infections can be contracted through contact with contaminated food or water, or by contact with infected animals.
Symptoms of gastrointestinal infection include vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
Dietary issues
Eating foods that are not part of their normal diet or that are spoiled can cause diarrhea and mouth-watering in dogs.
This can happen if a dog accidentally ingests something they shouldn’t have, such as garbage or spoiled food.
This can also occur if a dog is suddenly switched to a new type of food without proper transition. Symptoms may also include vomiting and abdominal discomfort.
Food allergies or sensitivities
Some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to certain ingredients in their food, which can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea and mouth-watering.
Common food allergens for dogs include proteins like chicken, beef, and dairy products. These allergies can develop at any time in a dog’s life.
The symptoms that can accompany diarrhea and mouth-watering include itching, hives, and other skin problems.
Medication side effects
Certain medications can have side effects that affect the digestive system, and cause symptoms such as diarrhea and mouth watering.
Antibiotics, for example, can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut and cause diarrhea. Other medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also cause stomach ulcers and gut bleeding which can lead to bloody diarrhea and/or mouth watering.
Illness
Many diseases and conditions cause diarrhea and mouth-watering as symptoms. These illnesses include organ dysfunction, that is, kidney or liver disease, inflammatory bowel syndrome, colitis, or cancer.
Pancreatitis which is the inflammation of the pancreas can lead to diarrhea and mouth-watering as well as other symptoms such as abdominal pain.
Stress or anxiety
Dogs that experience high levels of stress or anxiety may develop diarrhea and mouth watering as a result.
This can happen in response to changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home or the arrival of a new pet or family member.
It can also happen in response to certain events, such as loud noises or thunderstorms.
Poisoning
Exposure to certain toxins, such as pesticides or heavy metals, can cause diarrhea and mouth-watering. The toxins can be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin causing poisoning.
Other symptoms that may occur include vomiting, tremors, and seizures. It is important to keep dogs away from known toxins and seek veterinary attention if exposure is suspected.
Dog diarrhea and mouth watering: What to do and when to seek help
If your dog is experiencing both diarrhea and mouth watering, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Here are other signs that indicate that you should see a veterinarian immediately:
Severe or bloody diarrhea: If your dog’s diarrhea is severe or if there is blood or mucus in the stool, this could be a sign of a serious underlying condition and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Other symptoms: Other symptoms may accompany diarrhea including vomiting. If your dog is vomiting along with diarrhea, this can quickly lead to dehydration and other complications. This requires immediate medical attention.
Other symptoms to look out for include lethargy, lack of appetite, breathing difficulties, signs of pain or discomfort, fever, and signs of dehydration, such as a dry nose or mouth and sunken eyes.
If your dog is a puppy or an older dog: Puppies and older are generally more vulnerable than healthy adult dogs so delaying treatment could result in their condition worsening or becoming more difficult to treat. Therefore, it is essential to seek immediate medical care.
Interested in learning more about dog diarrhea and how to take proactive steps to manage it? Our comprehensive guide on dog diarrhea offers a wealth of information, including causes, treatment options at home, preventive measures, and more. Don’t miss out— explore the complete guide.
