What is Loss of Appetite?
Loss of appetite, or “anorexia”, in dogs is a sign that can be indicative of a variety of possible underlying problems. The underlying cause could range from a minor stressor to a life-threatening illness. A pet choosing to eat little or no food as the result of an upset stomach or stress may begin eating again within 24 hours. However, loss of appetite for longer than 1-2 days can be a sign of medical emergency and should not go untreated.
Refusing to eat more than two meals is uncommon for most dogs. Loss of appetite is a serious indicator of an underlying illness, which can vary from depression to cancer. if you notice a change in your dog's eating habits, schedule an appointment with a veterinarian immediately. It is especially important to respond quickly to a refusal to eat in dogs that are usually "chow hounds", and normally have good appetites.
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Symptoms of Loss of Appetite in Dogs
Signs of loss of appetite in dogs include:
- Eating less food than normal
- Refusing to eat food
- Refusing to eat treats
- Lack of interest in food
- Trying to eat but unable
- Weight loss
- Weakness/lethargy
- Vomiting
Types
- Pseudo-anorexia – The pet wants to eat, however cannot due to a physical problem.
- True anorexia – The pet has no desire to eat.
Causes of Loss of Appetite in Dogs
A variety of issues can cause loss of appetite in dogs:
Psychological Causes of Anorexia
- Depression
- Stress
- Undesirable food
- Environmental change
- Dietary change
- Change in daily routine
Physical Causes of Anorexia
- Medication
- Infection (bacterial, viral, parasitic)
- Cancer
- Pain
- Toxin exposure
- Dental problems
- Cardiovascular disease
- Gastrointestinal disease or blockage
- Endocrine disorder
- Autoimmune disease
- Respiratory illness
- Neurological disease
Diagnosis of Loss of Appetite in Dogs
It is important to note whether any environmental or dietary changes have occurred that may be causing the loss of appetite in your pet. Possible stressors could include moving to a new home, having house guests for a visit, a family member leaving for a period of time, getting a new pet, loud noises (fireworks, gunshots, thunder) or change in diet.
If your pet is demonstrating loss of appetite, you may want to try feeding a bland diet (boiled chicken breast and white rice) and see if the appetite returns. If you have changed diets recently, try going back to the old diet or add a bit of low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth to stimulate appetite. Monitor your pet for 24 hours and if low appetite continues or if you notice the pet is not having bowel movements or is having diarrhea and/or vomiting, visit the veterinarian for an examination.
The veterinarian will want to know when the loss of appetite began, and whether your pet tries to eat but can’t or doesn’t try at all. Any recent changes to the diet or environment can be important information.
The physical examination will include an examination of the mouth, teeth and throat and abdominal palpitation for possible pain or masses. Laboratory diagnostics may include blood testing to detect any abnormalities in liver, kidney, and other organ function. A fecal exam can detect the presence of intestinal parasites. Radiographs will aid in visualization of any abdominal or chest abnormalities. Endoscopy can be used to help visualize the condition of the throat, stomach lining and upper small intestine.
Treatment of Loss of Appetite in Dogs
You can attempt to stimulate appetite at home by warming the pet’s food slightly or adding warm water to kibble (increasing smell and palatability). Be very certain that the food is not too hot and stir microwaved food well to distribute heat evenly after warming. You may also try adding canned food or low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth) to kibble. A pet may respond to hand feeding with fingers or a spoon better than eating from a bowl.
If the pet refuses to eat after a 24-hour period, veterinary treatment will be necessary.
Supportive Care
If the pet has not eaten in a few days, intravenous or subcutaneous fluid therapy will rehydrate the pet and provide electrolytes. Syringe feeding or a feeding tube may be required for pets who haven’t eaten in 2-3 days. An appetite stimulant such as mirtazapine or cyproheptadine can aid in boosting appetite.
Treatment of the Underlying Issue
Once the condition that is causing the loss of appetite is identified, proper treatment of the condition will be initiated. This may involve oral medications, dental procedure and/or surgery.
Refeeding
Once the pet is stabilized, a refeeding plan will be put into place. Normally, a bland diet will be offered for 2-3 days with small portions given frequently throughout the day. The diet will then transition to a regular diet gradually over one week
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Recovery of Loss of Appetite in Dogs
Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions on refeeding and diet management carefully. The gastrointestinal tract is often sensitive after periods of not eating and your veterinarian’s dietary instructions will address this. Let your veterinarian know if appetite is not considerably improved within 1-2 days after release and monitor bowel movements and behavior carefully.
Recovery from anorexia depends on the ability to detect and treat the underlying cause quickly. Prognosis may be good with early detection and pets can regain appetite in a day or two after the underlying cause is addressed.
A high-quality diet is essential for keeping your dog happy and healthy. Digestive problems and food allergies can be expensive to treat. Compare pet health insurance plans to save more than $270 a year on vet care.
Loss of Appetite Average Cost
From 11 quotes ranging from $500 - $8,000
Average Cost
$1,000
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Loss of Appetite Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Blue nose pit bull
Two Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Vomiting, Loss Of Appetite
My dog hasn’t wanted to or tried to eat in three whole days. He drinks water just fine, still moves around (just seems kinda upset), and still wants to go outside. Three days ago he started throwing up all his water and tons of grass chunks after being crated for most the day (which he usually isn’t ever in a crate). The next day still throwing up water just not near as much. The following day he vomited twice a green color with a couple pieces of grass, and today once so far just green. I’ve tried giving him his normal food, special treats, human food and he won’t take any of it.
Sept. 26, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Since I cannot see him or see what might ebe going on, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine your pet, see what might be going on, and get treatment for them if needed.
Oct. 17, 2020
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Golden Retriever
Four Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Loss Of Appetite
Loss of appetite and a degree of disinterest in food.
Sept. 25, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
I hope that your pet is okay. If they are still having any problems, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get any testing or treatment taken care of that might be needed.
Oct. 20, 2020
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Pit husky mix
Eight Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Loss Of Appetite
Not eating or drinking loss of interest in favorite toys and snacks and inactive . this came on suddenly. What could be wrong?
Sept. 25, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
Puppies are prone to infections, intestinal parasites, and infectious disease. If they are still having problems, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get any testing or treatment taken care of that might be needed.
Oct. 23, 2020
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Wolf dog
Fourteen Years
4 found this helpful
4 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Not Walking Not Eating No Bowel Movements And Not Drinking Alot
I took the dog in he's blind and arthritis. He was fine Thursday now he's not able to walk on his own I believe he's dying. I don't know how to determine.
Aug. 16, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
4 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I'm sorry that your dog is not feeling well. From your description, he sounds very sick, and needs to see a veterinarian right away. They will be able to examine him, see what might be going on, and give you an idea as to what treatment might be able to be done for him to make him feel better. I hope that he is okay.
Aug. 16, 2020
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Loss of Appetite Average Cost
From 11 quotes ranging from $500 - $8,000
Average Cost
$1,000
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Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
