12 Essential Steps to Tackle Your Dog's Eating Issues

It& 39;s concerning when our furry friends lose their appetite Whether your dog has completely stopped eating or

It's concerning when our furry friends lose their appetite. Whether your dog has completely stopped eating or is just eating less, there are many possible causes, some of them severe. Let's explore the reasons behind inadequate feeding and arm ourselves with knowledge to handle such situations effectively.

1. Understand The Basics

Dog's nutritional needs vary based on their size, age, breed etc. They usually are food-motivated, so a lack of eating habit is an area of concern.

2. Is It A Behavioral Cause?

Maybe your dog is a picky eater, or has it accustomed to a variety of treats and table foods. Regular changes in the pet food can create a behavioral issue of anorexia.

3. Could It Be A Disease?

A sick dog may lose the will to eat. Liver and kidney disease, intestinal disease, cancer, are all serious conditions that may affect a dog's appetite.

4. Check For Pain

Separate from illnesses, any form of discomfort, like joint or muscle pain, can cause a dog to stop eating as bending down to eat could be painful.

5. Dental Issues Can Cause Anorexia

Broken teeth, periodontal disease, or even a stick stuck in the roof of the dog's mouth could result in loss of appetite.

6. Environmental Impact On Eating Habits

Environmental changes like a new family member, home renovations, or moving to a new place could be stressful for your dog, resulting in poor eating habits.

7. Impact Of Drugs And Medication

Medications can also affect a dog's eating habits. Always consult with your vet about possible side effects of prescribed medicines.

8. Have You Checked For Obstruction?

Dogs often ingest inedible objects, like toys or rocks. These objects can cause an obstruction in the digestive system, possibly leading to a loss of appetite.

9. How To Handle A Dog That’s Not Eating

Don't force-feed your dog. If your dog is losing weight, consult your vet about assisted feeding. Force-feeding incorrectly may cause aspiration.

10. When should you Contact Your Vet?

Always keep in touch with your vet about your pet’s eating habits. If the poor appetite is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, consult your vet immediately.

11. Useful Tips To Stimulate Your Dog's Appetite

There are a few tricks you can try to encourage your dog to eat. Try warming up the food a bit, offer baby food or sprinkle a bit of low-fat mozzarella. Always consult your vet before trying new feeding techniques.

12. Proactive Measures: Prevention Better Than Cure

Maintain regular dental health checkups for your dog, and be disciplined about their diet. Overindulgence in treats or table food can lead to eating issues.