Salivary gland disorders / Sialocele / Mucocele

Salivary gland disorders in cats encompass a range of conditions affecting the salivary glands, with sialocele and mucocele being among the most commonly diagnosed presentations. A sialocele, also referred to as a salivary mucocele, occurs when saliva leaks from a damaged salivary gland or its associated duct and accumulates in the surrounding tissues, forming a fluid-filled swelling. While these conditions are relatively uncommon in cats compared to dogs, they can affect felines of any age, breed, or sex. The four major salivary glands in cats include the parotid, mandibular, sublingual, and zygomatic glands, each of which can potentially develop disorders that impact the cat's ability to eat, swallow, and maintain normal oral health.

The primary cause of salivary gland disorders in cats is trauma to the gland or its duct, which can result from bite wounds, chewing on sharp objects, or blunt force injuries to the head and neck region. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown, classified as idiopathic. When a salivary duct becomes damaged or obstructed, saliva cannot flow normally into the mouth and instead leaks into surrounding tissues, creating inflammation and the characteristic swelling associated with these conditions. Foreign bodies, tumors, or inflammatory conditions can also contribute to the development of salivary gland problems.

Salivary gland disorders can significantly impact a cat's quality of life if left untreated. The accumulation of saliva in tissues can cause visible swelling under the jaw, neck, or near the eyes, depending on which gland is affected. Cats may experience difficulty eating, pain when opening their mouths, and respiratory complications if the swelling becomes severe enough to compress the airway. The condition can range from mild, causing only minor discomfort, to severe cases requiring emergency intervention to prevent breathing difficulties.

The good news for cat owners is that salivary gland disorders are generally treatable, with surgical intervention typically providing excellent outcomes. Early detection and veterinary care are essential to prevent complications and ensure the best prognosis. Most cats recover well following appropriate treatment, returning to normal eating and activity levels. However, delayed treatment can lead to chronic inflammation, infection, and recurrence of the condition, making prompt veterinary attention crucial when symptoms are first noticed.

The primary cause of salivary gland disorders in cats is trauma to either the salivary gland itself or its associated duct system. This trauma can occur through various mechanisms, with bite wounds being one of the most common causes in cats that go outdoors or live in multi-cat households where fighting may occur. Penetrating injuries from sharp objects, such as sticks, bones, or even grass awns, can damage the delicate ductal tissue and lead to saliva leakage. Blunt force trauma to the head, neck, or jaw area, whether from falls, car accidents, or rough play, may also injure the salivary glands and their ducts without any visible external wounds.

While there is no strong genetic predisposition to salivary gland disorders in cats, certain anatomical variations may make some individuals more susceptible to duct damage or obstruction. Unlike some conditions that show clear breed predilections, salivary mucoceles and sialoceles appear to affect all cat breeds equally. Family history does not appear to play a significant role in the development of these conditions, and there are no known inherited defects of the salivary glands that predispose cats to these problems. However, cats with underlying conditions affecting tissue healing or immune function may experience more complications.

Environmental and lifestyle factors can influence a cat's risk of developing salivary gland disorders. Outdoor cats face greater exposure to situations that could result in traumatic injuries, including fights with other animals, encounters with foreign objects, and accidents. Indoor cats are not immune, however, as chewing on inappropriate items, rough play with other pets, or household accidents can also cause the necessary trauma. Nutritional factors do not directly cause salivary gland disorders, though a cat's overall health status can affect how well they recover from any injury to these structures.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of a cat developing salivary gland problems. Young adult cats may be at slightly higher risk due to their typically more active and exploratory behavior, which increases exposure to potential trauma. Cats that engage in frequent fighting or rough play have elevated risk compared to more sedentary individuals. Pre-existing conditions such as oral tumors, dental disease, or inflammatory conditions in the mouth can compromise the integrity of salivary structures and predispose to complications. Additionally, cats that have previously experienced salivary gland trauma may have weakened tissue that is more susceptible to future problems.

The mechanism by which salivary gland disorders develop involves disruption of the normal anatomy that allows saliva to flow from the glands into the oral cavity. When a salivary duct is torn, punctured, or obstructed, saliva continues to be produced but cannot reach its intended destination. This saliva then accumulates in the surrounding tissues, creating a cavity lined by inflammatory tissue called granulation tissue. Over time, this cavity fills with saliva and mucus, forming the characteristic swelling of a mucocele. The body's inflammatory response to this leaked saliva contributes to the swelling and can cause pain and tissue damage in the affected area. In some cases, secondary bacterial infection may develop, further complicating the condition.

Early warning signs of salivary gland disorders in cats can be subtle and easily overlooked, particularly since cats are experts at hiding discomfort and illness. Initial symptoms may include slight reluctance to eat hard food, mild pawing at the face or mouth area, or barely noticeable swelling under the jaw or neck. Some cats may show increased drooling that owners might attribute to other causes, or they may groom their face and neck area more frequently than usual. Because these early signs are often vague and can mimic many other conditions, salivary gland disorders are frequently not diagnosed until the swelling becomes more pronounced. Owners should pay close attention to any changes in their cat's eating habits or facial symmetry.

The most common and recognizable symptom of salivary gland disorders is visible swelling in the head, neck, or throat region. The location of this swelling depends on which salivary gland is affected. Cervical mucoceles, involving the sublingual or mandibular glands, cause swelling under the jaw and along the neck, often appearing as a soft, fluctuant mass. Pharyngeal mucoceles cause swelling in the throat area and can be particularly concerning due to potential airway compromise. Zygomatic mucoceles affect the gland near the eye and may cause swelling below the eye or bulging of the eye itself. The swelling is typically painless initially but may become tender if secondary infection develops.

Behavioral changes often accompany salivary gland disorders as cats attempt to cope with the discomfort and physical limitations caused by the swelling. Affected cats may show decreased appetite or complete refusal to eat, particularly if the swelling interferes with normal jaw movement or swallowing. Some cats become more withdrawn or hide more than usual, reflecting their instinctive response to illness. Changes in drinking behavior may also occur, with some cats drinking less due to swallowing difficulties while others may drool excessively. Litter box habits typically remain unchanged unless the cat becomes systemically ill from secondary infection.

Physical signs of salivary gland disorders extend beyond the obvious swelling. Owners may notice excessive drooling or saliva accumulating around the mouth and chin. The fur around the affected area may appear wet or matted from saliva leakage. In cases of pharyngeal mucocele, the tongue may be displaced or the cat may hold its mouth slightly open. Some cats develop blood-tinged saliva if the mucocele becomes traumatized or ulcerated. Weight loss may occur in cats that have difficulty eating for extended periods, and dehydration can develop if drinking is also impaired.

Symptom progression in salivary gland disorders typically follows a pattern of gradual worsening if left untreated. Initially small swellings tend to enlarge over days to weeks as saliva continues to accumulate. The mass may fluctuate in size, sometimes appearing smaller after the cat has been resting and larger after eating or activity. Chronic cases may develop thickened walls around the fluid collection, making the swelling feel firmer. If secondary infection occurs, the swelling may become painful, warm to the touch, and the cat may develop fever and lethargy. Without treatment, the condition rarely resolves on its own and typically continues to worsen.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate veterinary attention include difficulty breathing, which can occur when pharyngeal mucoceles compress the airway. Cats showing open-mouth breathing, making unusual breathing sounds, or appearing to struggle for air should receive emergency care immediately. Sudden inability to swallow, complete refusal to eat or drink, or signs of severe pain warrant urgent attention. If a previously stable swelling suddenly increases in size, becomes hot and painful, or the cat develops fever and severe lethargy, these may indicate rupture, infection, or other complications requiring prompt intervention. Any cat showing signs of respiratory distress should be transported to a veterinary facility immediately.

The diagnostic process for salivary gland disorders typically begins with a thorough physical examination when an owner presents their cat for evaluation of swelling or other concerning symptoms. The veterinarian will carefully palpate the swelling to assess its size, consistency, location, and whether it causes pain. A soft, fluctuant swelling in characteristic locations strongly suggests a salivary mucocele. The veterinarian will examine the oral cavity to look for pharyngeal swelling and assess the cat's ability to swallow. A complete medical history, including any known trauma, outdoor access, or previous similar problems, helps guide the diagnostic approach. The vet will also evaluate the cat's overall condition and look for signs of systemic illness.

Diagnostic testing for suspected salivary gland disorders often begins with fine needle aspiration of the swelling. This simple procedure involves inserting a small needle into the mass to withdraw fluid for examination. Saliva from a mucocele typically appears as clear to blood-tinged, stringy, mucoid fluid that is distinct from the pus seen with abscesses or other fluids from different types of masses. Cytological examination of this fluid under a microscope can confirm the presence of saliva and rule out other causes of swelling. Blood tests may be performed to evaluate the cat's overall health and check for signs of infection or other underlying conditions. Complete blood count and serum chemistry panels provide valuable baseline information.

Imaging studies play an important role in diagnosing salivary gland disorders and planning treatment. Radiographs of the skull and neck can help identify any underlying bone involvement, foreign bodies, or tumors that might be contributing to the problem. Ultrasound examination is particularly useful for evaluating the extent of fluid accumulation and identifying which salivary gland is affected. Advanced imaging such as CT or MRI scans may be recommended in complex cases or when surgical planning requires detailed anatomical information. Sialography, a technique involving injection of contrast material into the salivary duct, can sometimes help identify the exact location of duct damage, though this is not commonly performed in cats.

Differential diagnosis is an important part of evaluating cats with swelling in the head and neck region. Other conditions that can mimic salivary mucoceles include abscesses from bite wounds or tooth root infections, lymph node enlargement from infection or cancer, cysts of various types, hematomas from trauma, and tumors of the salivary glands or surrounding tissues. The location of the swelling, results of fine needle aspiration, and imaging findings help differentiate between these possibilities. Accurate diagnosis is essential because treatment approaches differ significantly between these conditions. In some cases, biopsy of the tissue surrounding the fluid collection may be necessary to rule out underlying tumors or other conditions. Once a definitive diagnosis of salivary mucocele is made, the veterinarian can discuss treatment options and likely prognosis with the owner.

Initial treatment for salivary gland disorders depends on the severity of symptoms and the cat's overall condition at presentation. Cats presenting with respiratory distress from pharyngeal mucoceles require emergency stabilization, which may include oxygen supplementation, sedation to reduce stress, and emergency drainage of the fluid collection to relieve airway obstruction. For stable cats, initial management may include pain medication if the cat appears uncomfortable, and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling. Antibiotics are prescribed if there are signs of secondary infection. While these measures may provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying problem and are typically used to stabilize the cat before definitive treatment.

Medical management alone is generally not curative for salivary mucoceles, but medications play an important supportive role throughout treatment. Anti-inflammatory medications help reduce tissue swelling and improve comfort. Pain management is essential, particularly after surgical procedures, and may include opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or other analgesics appropriate for cats. Antibiotics are prescribed when infection is present or suspected, or prophylactically around the time of surgery. Some veterinarians may attempt repeated drainage of the mucocele as a conservative approach, but this rarely provides permanent resolution because saliva continues to leak from the damaged duct. Medical management is most useful as a bridge to surgery or for cats that cannot undergo anesthesia.

Surgical treatment is the definitive therapy for salivary mucoceles and offers the best chance for permanent resolution. The standard surgical approach involves removal of the affected salivary gland and its associated duct, a procedure called sialadenectomy. For sublingual and mandibular mucoceles, both the mandibular and sublingual glands on the affected side are typically removed together because they share a common duct system. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia through an incision in the neck. The mucocele cavity is drained and may be partially excised or left to heal by secondary intention. Identifying and removing the correct gland is essential for preventing recurrence, and if there is uncertainty about which side is affected, the veterinarian may need to rely on imaging or surgical exploration.

Supportive care during treatment and recovery is essential for optimal outcomes. Cats may require fluid therapy to maintain hydration, especially if they have not been eating or drinking well. Nutritional support may include offering soft or liquid foods that are easier to swallow, or in severe cases, temporary feeding tube placement. Keeping the cat calm and restricting activity helps promote healing after surgery. The surgical site must be monitored for signs of swelling, discharge, or dehiscence. An Elizabethan collar may be necessary to prevent the cat from scratching or rubbing at the incision. Warm compresses can help with minor swelling, and the surgical site should be kept clean and dry.

Alternative and complementary treatments for salivary gland disorders are limited, and surgical intervention remains the standard of care. Some holistic practitioners may recommend anti-inflammatory herbs or supplements, but these should not replace veterinary treatment. Acupuncture may provide some pain relief but does not address the underlying anatomical problem. Laser therapy has been explored for promoting tissue healing after surgery. Physical therapy is generally not applicable to this condition. The most important complementary approach is ensuring optimal nutrition and stress reduction to support the cat's overall health and recovery. Owners interested in integrative approaches should discuss these with their veterinarian to ensure they do not interfere with primary treatment.

Treatment decisions for salivary gland disorders involve several factors that owners should discuss with their veterinarian. The location and size of the mucocele influence surgical complexity and risk. The cat's overall health status and ability to undergo anesthesia are important considerations, particularly for older cats or those with concurrent health problems. Cost is a practical factor, as surgical treatment requires anesthesia, surgical expertise, and post-operative care. Owner lifestyle factors, including ability to provide post-operative care and attend follow-up appointments, influence treatment planning. Expected outcomes are generally excellent with appropriate surgical treatment, with most cats experiencing complete resolution and return to normal function. Without surgery, mucoceles typically recur after drainage and may progressively worsen.

Recovery from salivary gland surgery typically follows a predictable timeline, with most cats showing significant improvement within the first one to two weeks after the procedure. The immediate post-operative period, lasting the first 24 to 48 hours, involves recovery from anesthesia, pain management, and close monitoring for any complications. During the first week, cats may experience some swelling and discomfort at the surgical site, but these symptoms should progressively improve. Sutures or staples are typically removed 10 to 14 days after surgery if non-absorbable materials were used. Most cats can return to normal activity levels within two to three weeks, though complete tissue healing may take four to six weeks. The overall recovery time can be influenced by the cat's age, overall health, and whether any complications occur.

Post-treatment care requirements are essential for successful recovery and involve several key areas of owner attention. The surgical incision must be monitored daily for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, discharge, or opening of the wound. An Elizabethan collar should be worn until sutures are removed to prevent the cat from disturbing the incision. Activity restriction is important during the initial healing period, with cats ideally confined to a small room or large crate to limit jumping and running. Medications must be administered as prescribed, including pain relievers and any antibiotics. Soft food is often recommended for the first few days to make eating more comfortable. Follow-up appointments allow the veterinarian to assess healing and address any concerns.

Prognosis for cats with salivary gland disorders is generally excellent when appropriate surgical treatment is performed. The vast majority of cats experience complete resolution of their mucocele following removal of the affected gland, with recurrence rates being quite low when the correct gland is removed. Factors that positively influence prognosis include early diagnosis, appropriate surgical technique, and good post-operative care. Cats that present with severe respiratory compromise from pharyngeal mucoceles have a more guarded prognosis in the immediate period but typically do well once stabilized and treated. Quality of life after recovery is typically excellent, as cats do not experience significant problems from having one set of salivary glands removed, given the redundancy of the salivary system.

Long-term outlook for cats following treatment of salivary gland disorders is very favorable. Once healed, most cats return to completely normal eating, drinking, and behavior patterns with no lasting effects from their condition or surgery. The risk of recurrence is low when the affected gland has been completely removed, though it is possible for problems to develop in the remaining salivary glands if the cat experiences future trauma. Ongoing monitoring beyond the recovery period is generally not necessary unless problems arise. Annual or biannual veterinary examinations should include attention to the head and neck region as part of routine evaluation. Owners can expect their cats to enjoy normal quality of life and lifespan following successful treatment.

Primary prevention of salivary gland disorders focuses on reducing the risk of trauma that leads to salivary duct damage. Since bite wounds from cat fights are a common cause, minimizing fighting between cats is an important preventive measure. This can be achieved by keeping cats indoors, which eliminates exposure to unfamiliar outdoor cats that may be territorial or aggressive. For multi-cat households, providing adequate resources including food stations, water bowls, litter boxes, and resting areas helps reduce competition and conflict. Proper introduction of new cats to the household using gradual methods can prevent fighting. Identifying and addressing any intercat aggression early with behavioral modification or veterinary consultation helps maintain household peace.

Environmental modifications can help reduce the risk of traumatic injuries that might damage salivary glands. Removing or securing sharp objects that cats might chew on prevents oral injuries. Keeping cats away from areas where they might fall or be struck by heavy objects reduces blunt trauma risk. For outdoor cats or those with outdoor access, supervised outdoor time in enclosed spaces like catios provides environmental enrichment while limiting exposure to fights and accidents. Ensuring that fencing and outdoor areas are free from sharp protrusions protects exploring cats. Inside the home, securing heavy furniture and objects that could fall, and using cord protectors to prevent electrical cord chewing, creates a safer environment.

While no specific dietary measures prevent salivary gland disorders, maintaining overall oral health through proper nutrition supports the health of oral structures including salivary glands. Feeding appropriate-sized kibble or dental diets as recommended by a veterinarian can help maintain oral health. Avoiding bones and hard treats that could cause oral injuries is advisable. Fresh water should always be available to promote good hydration and normal salivary function. Some cats benefit from water fountains that encourage drinking. Treats should be given in moderation and should not pose a choking or injury hazard. Regular assessment of the cat's eating habits helps identify any problems early.

Regular veterinary care plays an important role in maintaining overall health and catching potential problems early. Annual or biannual wellness examinations allow the veterinarian to examine the head and neck region and note any subtle changes. Dental examinations and professional cleanings address oral health issues that could potentially affect surrounding structures. Vaccination keeps cats healthy and reduces the severity of illnesses that might indirectly affect the salivary glands. Parasite prevention maintains overall health. Owners should keep their veterinarian informed of any changes in their cat's eating behavior, as this could indicate developing oral problems.

Early intervention when problems are suspected gives the best outcomes for any condition affecting the oral cavity. Owners who notice even subtle changes in their cat's eating habits, facial symmetry, or behavior should seek veterinary attention promptly rather than waiting to see if the problem resolves on its own. Because cats are skilled at hiding illness, any visible signs likely represent more advanced problems than they appear. Regular home observation of your cat while eating and gentle checking of the head and neck area during petting sessions can help detect swelling or discomfort early. Establishing a good relationship with your veterinarian facilitates communication about concerns and enables prompt evaluation when needed. When caught early, salivary gland problems can often be addressed before they become severe.

Daily management of a cat with a salivary gland disorder prior to definitive treatment, or during the recovery period, requires attention to comfort and nutritional needs. Feeding soft or wet food makes eating easier for cats with oral swelling, and food can be warmed slightly to enhance aroma and appeal. Small, frequent meals may be better tolerated than large ones. Fresh water should always be available, and some cats find drinking from a shallow dish easier than deep bowls. Medication administration should follow veterinary instructions precisely, with pain medications given on schedule to maintain comfort. Monitoring eating and drinking amounts helps identify any decline that needs veterinary attention. Keeping the cat calm and comfortable in a quiet area of the home reduces stress during this period.

Home environment modifications help cats with salivary gland disorders stay comfortable and safe. Providing easily accessible resting spots that do not require jumping reduces physical strain. Litter boxes should be easily accessible with low sides if needed. Food and water dishes should be placed at a comfortable height, and elevated feeders may be helpful for some cats. Keeping the home temperature comfortable and providing soft bedding supports recovery. For cats wearing Elizabethan collars after surgery, ensuring clear pathways and removing obstacles helps them navigate. The environment should be kept calm and quiet, with handling minimized during recovery. Other pets may need to be separated if they are too boisterous around the recovering cat.

Maintaining quality of life is an important goal both during treatment and recovery. While activity may need to be restricted, gentle interaction and petting provide comfort and mental stimulation. Cats can enjoy watching birds through windows or supervised access to enclosed outdoor spaces once sufficiently recovered. Puzzle feeders using soft food or treats appropriate for the cat's condition provide mental enrichment. Playing with gentle toys that do not require intense physical activity offers entertainment. Grooming sessions, focusing on areas away from the affected region, maintain coat health and provide comfort. The goal is to keep the cat's spirits up while respecting the limitations imposed by their condition.

Monitoring and ongoing care after treatment ensures continued health and early detection of any problems. Owners should observe their cat's eating and drinking habits, noting any changes that might indicate discomfort or recurrence. The surgical site should be monitored for any late developing swelling or discharge. Regular veterinary follow-up appointments allow professional assessment of healing. Long-term, annual wellness examinations should include attention to the oral and neck regions. Weight should be monitored to ensure adequate nutrition is maintained. Any new symptoms such as drooling, swelling, or reluctance to eat warrant prompt veterinary evaluation. Keeping records of the cat's condition helps identify subtle changes over time.

Support for caregivers managing a cat with salivary gland disorder is an important consideration. The emotional stress of caring for a sick pet can be significant, and owners should not hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or support groups for understanding. Veterinary teams can provide guidance and reassurance throughout the treatment process. Financial concerns are valid, and owners should discuss costs openly with their veterinarian, who may be able to offer payment plans or suggest financial assistance resources. Taking breaks when possible and maintaining self-care helps prevent caregiver burnout. Joining online communities of cat owners who have dealt with similar conditions can provide practical tips and emotional support. Remember that with appropriate treatment, most cats with salivary gland disorders recover fully and go on to live normal, healthy lives.

Salivary gland disorders in cats do not show the strong breed predisposition that is sometimes seen in dogs. Unlike canine sialoceles, which are more common in certain breeds like German Shepherds and Poodles, feline salivary gland disorders appear to affect all breeds with relatively equal frequency. Domestic shorthairs and domestic longhairs, which make up the majority of the cat population, account for most cases simply due to their prevalence rather than any genetic susceptibility. Purebred cats are not known to have higher or lower rates of these conditions. The lack of breed predisposition suggests that environmental factors and trauma, rather than genetics, are the primary determinants of which cats develop salivary gland problems.

While no specific breeds are at higher risk, certain characteristics or lifestyles may predispose some cats to the trauma that causes salivary gland disorders. Intact males that fight more frequently may have higher incidence due to bite wound trauma. Cats with outdoor access face greater exposure to fighting and accidents. Young adult cats in their active, exploratory phase may encounter more situations leading to injury. Cats in multi-cat households with intercat aggression have increased risk. Brachycephalic breeds with shortened faces have different oral anatomy but are not specifically predisposed to salivary problems. Mixed breed cats are just as likely to develop these conditions as purebred cats when exposed to similar risk factors.

Because salivary gland disorders are not inherited, there are no breed-specific screening recommendations or genetic tests applicable to this condition. Unlike hereditary conditions where breeders can test and select against affected individuals, salivary mucoceles cannot be predicted or prevented through breeding practices. Routine health screenings for all cats should include oral examination, which may detect salivary gland abnormalities incidentally. Prospective cat owners should focus on overall health rather than salivary gland-specific concerns when evaluating cats. Breeders and breed clubs do not typically have recommendations regarding salivary gland disorders. The most important prevention strategies apply equally to all cats regardless of breed and focus on minimizing trauma risk through appropriate management and environmental safety.

Several conditions commonly co-occur with or relate to salivary gland disorders in cats. Bite wound abscesses frequently accompany salivary trauma since both can result from cat fights, and the same injury that damages a salivary duct may also introduce bacteria causing an abscess. Dental disease, including periodontal disease and tooth root abscesses, can occur alongside salivary problems and may complicate diagnosis and treatment. Oral foreign bodies, such as embedded plant material or bone fragments, may cause both direct salivary duct damage and other oral inflammation. Chronic stomatitis or oral inflammatory conditions may coexist with salivary disorders and can affect treatment decisions. These related conditions share risk factors including oral trauma and may require combined management approaches.

Several conditions present with similar symptoms to salivary gland disorders and must be differentiated for accurate diagnosis. Abscesses from various causes produce swelling in the head and neck region but contain pus rather than saliva. Lymphadenopathy, or swollen lymph nodes, can mimic salivary mucoceles in location and may result from infections, immune conditions, or cancer. Hematomas from trauma cause swelling that can resemble mucoceles but contain blood. Salivary gland tumors, while uncommon in cats, may present as masses in similar locations. Cysts of embryonic origin such as thyroglossal duct cysts can occur in the neck region. Accurate diagnosis through fine needle aspiration and imaging distinguishes between these possibilities, which is essential because treatment approaches differ significantly.

Potential complications of salivary gland disorders include several conditions that may develop if treatment is delayed or inadequate. Secondary bacterial infection of a mucocele can lead to abscess formation, systemic illness, and sepsis in severe cases. Chronic inflammation from untreated mucoceles can cause tissue damage and scarring that complicates eventual surgical treatment. Pharyngeal mucoceles pose the risk of progressive airway obstruction, which can become life-threatening. Recurrence can occur if the affected salivary gland is not completely removed or if the wrong gland is removed. Rarely, chronic salivary gland inflammation or trauma may predispose to development of salivary gland tumors, though this association is not well established in cats. Preventing complications relies on prompt diagnosis and appropriate definitive treatment.