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My dog's mouth is open, drooling, and he can't eat or drink.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Japanese Spitz | Male | 2 years and 2 months old | 12 lbs

My dog's mouth is always open and hypersalivation. Its been 5 days and he is not able to drink or eat however he swallows the food if it is given him in some shape but does not chew just swallows it. He tries to drink water but he cant and leaves behind his saliva. My vet cant come to a conclusion if it rabies or dropped jaw?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 15th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Jordan!

I seriously hope Jordan doesn't have Rabies. If rabies is a concern humans should not be touching his saliva or be in a position where they could be bitten.

It sounds like Jordan may have trigeminal neuritis (inflamed nerve). The cause is unknown but I have seen it after vaccination. The most effective treatment is supportive care. Jordan will need assistance with eating and drinking. If you are able to provide sufficient care at home, he may be treated as an outpatient, but if you cannot care for him, it will need supportive nutritional care in the veterinary hospital so that it is receiving adequate nutrients.

If Jordan is still able to lap and swallow food that is offered, you can use a large syringe that is placed in the corner of the mouth to feed him water and pureed foods, with Jordan's head slightly elevated so that it can swallow easily.

This disease usually spontaneously resolves after 2-4 weeks.

I hope this helps and I wish Jordan a speedy recovery!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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