There are several reasons why a dog may lose interest in eating. It is critical to identify the underlying problem to develop the most effective treatment. When a dog is ill, it may not want to eat. Even if you try your best, the dog will reject your offer. If they don’t eat for more than a few days, they run the risk of illness and possible death.
If your dog shows other symptoms aside from a decreased appetite, it is typically an indication of illness. Even though a lack of appetite in dogs is not always an indication of sickness, seeking immediate veterinary care is vital since it might signify serious diseases, such as cancer, different systemic infections, liver issues, and renal failure.
The good news is that there are several things you can do to make sure your dog is eating.
How to Get My Dog to Eat After Being Sick
After your dog has been sick and refusing to eat, it is time to make a plan to get its appetite back.
Different Meals
If your dog doesn’t want to eat her usual food, try giving her something new and different. Start by giving your dog canned wet food instead of dry food.
Add different flavors and aromas that your dog finds tasty and appealing.
Give your dog a treat. Add boiled chicken or tuna to your dog’s food in small amounts. It can make your dog want to eat more. If you give your dog a small piece of beef, fruit, or vegetable right from your kitchen, they might get excited too.
You must offer bland meals to your dog if it has been experiencing diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
In addition to improving the scent and taste of your dog’s food, adding heated broth enhances the flavor as well.
When dogs are unwell, they have an instinctive need to eat grass. They may become ill due to the grass, but it’s a natural technique to rid the body of toxins.
Every time they eat, reward them with a pat on the head and a cuddle to encourage them to do it again.
Feeding Techniques
Don’t feed your dog in the same place she usually eats. A break from habit may pique her curiosity and help re-establish her appetite.
Using a spoon to feed a sick dog might make it easier for the dog to consume small quantities of food. The more frequently they eat, the more their strength and hunger will grow. Alternatively, you may hand-feed your pet as you massage and hug them.
Your dog may be fed by hand. Try putting your finger in the liquid food and letting it lick it off to get its taste. If the dog is curious, it might even lick it off its bowl. This frequently works.
Your dog’s food will smell and taste better if you heat it. Sick canines’ sense of taste and smell can be impaired, so it may be easier for your dog to eat food that’s been heated up.
Praise your dog while she eats; this may entice her to resume eating.
Don’t push your dog to chow down. Allow the dog some time. If the dog eats, it may feel nauseated and vomit. A dog going up to 24-48 hours without eating is acceptable.
Patience is required when your dog refuses to eat. While it’s infuriating when she refuses to eat, venting your frustrations will do nothing to improve the dog’s appetite.
Going to the vet when your dog isn’t eating might be a smart option. Your veterinarian can assist you in determining the cause of your dog’s illness and the best course of treatment. If your dog is suffering from a disease or has trouble eating, your vet can help by prescribing the necessary drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs go without food for lengthy periods?
In general, healthy dogs can go up to five days without food, but only if they have clean water to drink. In extreme circumstances, dogs have been known to survive for far more extended periods without food, but not without suffering severe health effects.
Should I give my dog water after he has vomited?
You should not feed your dog for at least 12 to 24 hours after he has vomited to allow his digestive system a chance to recover and relax. You can give small quantities of water to your dog to help them stay hydrated. An overload of food and water can only make things worse for your dog.
