Dear Kevin,
“My dog went for three days without eating. Then she ate the fourth day. It’s now day five, and she isn’t eating again…not even treats. My dog has stopped eating. What should I do?” – Wanda, Columbia, South Carolina.
Hi Wanda,
A dog refusing food for several days, especially when it’s inconsistent like this, is a serious concern. Here’s what you should do ASAP:
Contact Your Veterinarian Right Away
Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours in dogs can indicate illness, pain, or a more serious underlying medical issue. Because your dog has now gone several days with little or no food, she/he could be at risk for dehydration, liver problems, or other complications, especially if she/he is a small breed or senior.
Monitor for Other Symptoms
Tell the vet if you notice any of the following:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or weakness
- Shivering or whining (possible sign of pain)
- Pale gums
- Labored breathing
- Sudden weight loss
- Refusing water
Possible Causes (Your Vet Will Help Diagnose)
- Infections (like gastrointestinal infections)
- Kidney or liver disease
- Pancreatitis
- Foreign object ingestion
- Dental pain
- Stress or anxiety
- Medications or recent vaccinations
Please Do Not Wait and See
The “on and off” eating pattern can mean your dog is trying to eat but something is making it painful or nauseating. Dogs can go downhill quickly when not eating. You and your dog are in our thoughts.
Petworks Co-Founder Kevin Kinyon is a life-long animal lover who works tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their parents. Human and animal qualities he values most are integrity, humor, and empathy.
Follow Up: “She began eating again yesterday and has been drinking lots of water. She drank a lot of water even when she didn’t eat. Thank you for your response. ” – Wanda
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