PetMD Seal

Loss of Appetite in Dogs

PrintPrint

Treatment

 

After identifying and correcting (or treating) the underlying cause of the anorexia, the veterinarian will work towards establishing a healthy, well-balanced diet for your dog. This includes increasing the fat or protein content of the food, improving the taste of the diet by adding flavored toppings and broths, and, occasionally, heating the food to body temperature.

 

Intravenous (IV) feeding may be required if the dog is severely anorexic, especially if it has not eaten for three to five days or longer. Also, if the anorexia is due to pain, your veterinarian might prescribe pain medications for your dog.

 

Living and Management

 

Anorexia is a serious condition which requires you to monitor and watch your dog very carefully. It is important you notify the veterinarian of any progress (or lack thereof). If your dog does not start eating on its own after a day or two, you will need to take it back to the veterinarian for more treatment options.

 

 

Related Articles

Obesity in Dogs
Obesity is a medically relevant nutritional disease which is defined by an excess...
READ MORE
Ingestion of Feces and Foreign Objects in ...
Pica is a medical issue referring to a dog's craving of a non-food item and the subsequent...
READ MORE
Chronic Inflammation of the Anus, Rectum or ...
Perianal fistula is a disorder in which the anus, rectum, and perineal regions of...
READ MORE
  • Lifetime Credits:
  • Today's Credits:
Hurry Before All Seats are Taken!
Enroll
Be an A++ Pet Parent! Take fun & free courses to earn badges & certifications. Choose a course»

symptom checker

Search dog Articles

 

Follow petMD


Keep your pets healthy and safe with the latest from petMD

Latest In Dog Nutrition

Five Life-Lengthening Health Tips for Your ...
Anyone who has ever had a dog or cat wishes just one thing — that he or she has a...
READ MORE
5 Tips to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy
Senior dogs have different health requirements than younger dogs. Here are some tips...
READ MORE
How Antioxidants Improve Our Pet's Health, ...
The science behind pet nutrition continues to make major advances. One such example...
READ MORE
MORE FROM PETMD.COM