Many of us have a difficult relationship with food – why can’t we crave carrots instead of chocolate when we’re stressed? ! Dogs aren’t immune to this, although they’re not likely to dive into a pint of ice cream after a bad breakup or being fired from a job. Instead, they may stop eating altogether. Luckily, we have experts to weigh in on the issues surrounding a new disinterest in food.
Christine Caplan, a certified veterinary technician with AKC Pet Insurance, based in Portland, Oregon, says there are five main factors that can prevent dogs from eating:
- Medical conditions – Your veterinarian will help you with a treatment plan to ensure your dog is eating following a health issue, and sometimes an appetite stimulant is needed.
- Surgery – It may take several days for your dog’s appetite to return to normal.
- Medications – Many drugs can cause inappetence, which is very common when opioids are taken.
- Aging – Most older people lose their appetite due to illness or weakening of the senses. At the start of the day, many older people are simply not hungry.
- Stress – Any change or movement can cause stress and gastrointestinal upset.
Also keep in mind that frequency is key here. “If the dog misses a meal, I wouldn’t be too worried, but if the problem persists after that, a good physical and lab work is definitely recommended,” says 2019 Veterinary Hero Award nominee Dr Judy Morgan and founder and CEO. from Dr. Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Pets, based in Wendell, NC.
Lori Head, St. Joseph, Missouri, U.S. operations manager for Tonisity, maker of DoggyRade, echoed that sentiment, adding that while “a loss of appetite in dogs does not necessarily indicate serious problems, careful attention Prompt veterinary care is important and advisable, especially a refusal to eat in dogs that generally eat well. She lists dental disease, recent vaccinations, and being in an unfamiliar environment as other potential causes for dogs to stop eating.
The reasons your dog may stop eating can range from a picky poodle to a sickly schnauzer. So what is the solution for different reasons?
Dog not eating due to medical issues
“If your dog’s loss of appetite is caused by a disease, your veterinarian can recommend a prescription diet to meet your pet’s nutritional needs, while the underlying issues are treated and identified,” says Lori.
Your dog can give you clues if he’s not eating because he’s not feeling well. “Sometimes they realize that a particular flavor (or protein) just isn’t right for them,” says Dr. Morgan and adds that a sick dog usually shows the following signs:
- lethargy
- make a lot of stomach noise
- lick lips
- burp
- vomiting
- drool
- diarrhea
If a dog is not feeling well, Christine advises switching to a bland diet for a few days.
Dr. Morgan advises on possible physical problems or conditions that may prevent or deter a dog from eating:
- An obstruction by a foreign body, a mass in the stomach or intestine, or cancer of the stomach or intestine.
- Kidney failure and cancer are associated with a lack of appetite. Sometimes dogs may not like a particular food or the smell is off (rancid food).
- Dogs can have an upset stomach from something they ate or a food sensitivity or intolerance.
- Pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and colitis can all cause dogs to shy away from food.
- If inappetence is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, a veterinary examination is warranted, especially if there is blood or mucus in the vomit or stool.
Dog not eating due to non-medical issues
“If it’s medical, the pet owner should defer to their veterinarian,” Christine says. “But if it’s behavioral, it’s important to explore different types of food, from toppers to a fresh diet. You can also try feeding on a lick mat or food mat rather than a bowl. .
Once a medical issue has been ruled out, Lori suggests things you can do when your dog won’t eat:
- Reduce treats
- Feed your pet on a regular schedule
- Make mealtime fun, like playing with a food-dispensing toy or rewarding your dog with food for taking a walk.
- Walk your dog before meals.
- Change your dog’s feeding situation; try to feed her alone if you have other animals.
- Also try different bowls or plates at different heights to see what your dog prefers.
You can opt for assistance from a pro, and there is nothing wrong with that. “It’s best to work with a trainer or certified behaviorist if your dog is boycotting and you’ve ruled out medical issues,” advises Christine. “If stress is the cause, a trainer can help determine why it’s happening and how to fix it.”
Never let your dog starve him
Whatever the reason for inappetence, we’ve all heard the “dog eats when hungry” attitude, but it’s not advised. In fact, Dr. Morgan calls it a “horrendous solution. A pet should never be hungry. Waiting for them 24 hours is fine. For puppies, no more than 12 hours.
Dogs and humans can have similarities with food, including skipping a meal for no real reason. But having these tools handy can help you figure out if it really is 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 based in California. She and her husband have three rescue Bull Terriers. Dexter will eat his kibble and everything else (including the paper); Tosh likes carrots but no other vegetables; and Maybelene will not eat unless there is a fresh or freeze-dried topper added. Contact Elizabeth at fromconcepttocontent.com.
