Many of us have trouble with our food relationships – why can’t we crave carrots instead of chocolate when we’re stressed?! Dogs aren’t immune to this, even though they’re unlikely to rush into a pint of ice cream after a bad breakup or being fired. Instead, they may stop eating altogether. Thankfully, we have some experts to weigh in on the issues surrounding a renewed lack of interest in food.
Christine Caplan, a certified veterinary technician with AKC pet insurancebased in Portland, Oregon, says there are five main factors that can cause dogs to stop eating:
- Medical conditions Your veterinarian will help you with a treatment plan to make sure your dog is eating according to a health problem and sometimes an appetite stimulant is needed.
- Surgery It can take days before your dog’s appetite returns to normal.
- medicine Many medications can cause anorexia, and this is very common with opioids.
- Aging Most elderly people have anorexia due to illness or impaired senses. At the beginning of the day, many seniors are not hungry.
- Stress Any change or movement can cause GI stress and discomfort.
Keep in mind, frequency is key here. Dr Judy Morgan, 2019 Veterinary Hero Award Nominee and Founder and CEO, said: “If the dog skipped a meal, I wouldn’t be too concerned, but if the problem persists after that, then definitely get a medical checkup and work in a lab.” of the Dr. Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Petsbased in Wendell, North Carolina.
Lori Head, St. Joseph, Missouri-based head of US operations for tonisityproducer DoggyRade, echoed that point, adding that although, “A dog’s loss of appetite is not necessarily a sign of serious problems, prompt veterinary care is important and advised, especially is anorexia in dogs that normally eat well.” She listed dental diseaseRecent vaccinations and being in unfamiliar surroundings are other potential causes of a dog not eating.
Reasons for your dog not eating can range from a picky Poodle to a sick Schnauzer. So what is the solution for these different reasons?
Dog refuses to eat due to illness
“If your dog’s loss of appetite is due to illness, your veterinarian can recommend a prescription diet to meet your pet’s nutritional needs, while keeping the underlying issues at bay,” says Lori. are being resolved and identified.
Your dog can give you some clues if she’s not eating because she’s not feeling well. “Sometimes they realize a particular flavor (or protein) doesn’t suit them,” says Dr. Morgan, adding that a sick dog will often show the following signs:
- listless
- do a lot stomach noises
- lick lips
- Belching
- vomiting
- drooling
- diarrhea
If the dog is not feeling well, Christine recommends switching to a bland diet for a few days.
Dr. Morgan advises on physical problems or illnesses that may prevent or prevent dogs from eating:
- Obstruction of a foreign body, a tumor in the stomach or intestines, or cancer of the stomach or intestines.
- Kidney failure and cancer have been linked to loss of appetite. Sometimes dogs may not like a particular food or lose its smell (stale food).
- Dogs can get an upset stomach from eating something or food sensitivities or intolerant.
- pancreatitisInflammatory bowel disease and colitis can both cause dogs to stop eating.
- If anorexia is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, a veterinary examination is necessary, especially if there is blood or mucus in the vomit or stool.
Dog not eating due to non-medical problems
“If it’s a medical issue, pet owners need to turn to their vet,” says Christine. “But if it’s behavior, then it’s important to explore foods ranging from supplements to raw foods diets. You can also try feeding on a licking mat or food mat instead of a bowl.
Once a medical problem has been ruled out, Lori suggests things you can do when your dog won’t eat:
- Cut down on junk food
- Feed your pet on a regular schedule
- Turn mealtime into a fun time, such as playing with a food dispenser or enjoying dog food while performing a trick.
- Take the dog for a walk before mealtime.
- Change the dog feeding situation; try feeding her alone if you have other animals.
- Also, try different bowls or plates at different heights to see what your dog likes better.
You can choose support from an expert and there is nothing wrong with that. Christine advises, “Working with a certified trainer or behaviorist is best if your dog is ostracized and you have ruled out medical problems. “If stress is the reason, a coach can help determine why this is happening and how to address it.”
Never let your dog starve
Whatever the reason for not having an appetite, we’ve all heard the saying, “The dog will eat when he’s hungry,” but it’s not recommended. In fact, Dr. Morgan calls this “The Terrible Solution. A pet should never be starved. Waiting for them to come out for 24 hours is fine. For puppies, no more than 12 hours.”
Dogs and humans can have similarities with food, including skipping meals for no real reason. But having these tools ready can help you determine if it’s really a problem and if so, what to do. Whatever you do, keep Ben & Jerry’s to yourself.
Elizabeth Anderson Lopez is an award-winning writer in California. She and her husband have three Bull Terrier rescue dogs. Dexter will eat his kibble and anything else (including paper); Tosh likes carrots but dislikes other vegetables; and Maybelene will not eat unless fresh or freeze-dried topper is added. Contact Elizabeth at fromconcepttocontent.com.
