Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils. The tonsils are part of the lymphatic system. Canines have two tonsils, one each located on the sides of the oral cavity at the rear. They are found within a fold of tissue referred to as a tonsillar crypt. When enlarged, they fold out of the crypt and are easily visible with the naked eye.

What are the symptoms?

As with other throat and mouth irritations, many dogs will be reluctant to eat and will drool excessively because swallowing is painful. Other dogs with the same condition will swallow repeatedly. The tonsils will appear enlarged and reddened.

What are the risks?

As in humans, tonsillitis is seldom serious; however, it can be chronic and annoying.

What is the management?

The cause of the enlarged tonsils should be determined. Streptococcus or other bacteria frequently infect the area. Antibiotics are effective if bacteria are the cause. Foreign objects, such as sticks, lodged in the throat can also cause inflammation of the tonsils. Only in severe chronic tonsillitis of unknown origin should the tonsils be removed. The canine tonsils are lymphoid tissue and therefore important in fighting diseases. When possible they should be left intact.

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