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Dog Appetite LossDog appetite loss can be caused by some underlying health problems, so any sudden loss of appetite should be monitored carefully.
Most of the time, dogs enjoy chowing down their food. They even find stale food or garbage delicious! However, just like us, a dog occasionally may lose his appetite due
to stress, a lack of exercise, or even a change in the weather.
Temporary appetite loss in dogs is not serious, as dogs can stay healthy and active even if they fast for 48 hours. In fact, dogs instinctively fast when there is a need
for internal cleansing and detoxification.
However, if your dog suddenly loses his appetite or stops eating altogether for more than two days, coupled with weight loss, then you should take him to the vet for a
check-up. The dog appetite loss is most likely caused by some underlying health problem.
Causes of Dog Appetite LossStress A dog may lose her appetite when there is stress in her living environment. For example, when there is a new dog in the family, or when she is put in the kennel while her owners are on vacation. Digestive Problems Digestive problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, and so on, can also cause dog appetite loss. If your dog stops eating because of diarrhea, don't force food down her throat. Fasting in this case is actually good for your dog. Just remember to encourage her to drink water to prevent dehydration. Bacterial or Viral Infections Infectious diseases usually cause fever, which in turn may cause a dog to lose his appetite. In this case, it is also natural and beneficial for the dog to fast. Temporarily going without food allows the body to devote less energy to digestion and more to fight the bugs that make him sick. Respiratory Diseases Some dogs may lose their appetites when they suffer from an upper respiratory disease (e.g. asthma, kennel cough). Perhaps it is due to the fact that the disease temporarily reduces their ability to smell their food. Other Health Problems Other health problems that may cause dog appetite loss include:
Natural Remedies for Dog Appetite LossFor the occasional appetite loss, and if the dog is otherwise healthy, try some of the following to stimulate her appetite. Herbs Dogs like the taste of garlic, so mix a small amount of finely chopped fresh garlic (one-eighth to one-fourth of a teaspoon depending on the size of the dog) to their food. The garlic taste may coax them to eat. Other herbs that are not only appetite-stimulating but also nutritious include peppermint, fennel, ginger, alfalfa, and dill. Just sprinkle some of these dried herbs on your dog's food. Essential Oils The essential oils of rose and vetiver are effective in perking up a flagging dog appetite. One convenient way to get the scent of the oils to your dog is to put 2 to 3 drops of either one of these oils on a bandanna and tie it around your dog's neck. (DO NOT put the oil directly on the dog's skin.) Homeopathy Nux vomica This homeopathic remedy is effective for dogs who have lost their appetites due to indigestion or constipation. Dogs that need this remedy may vomit or retch. They are depressed and irritable especially in the mornings. Carbo vegetabilis This is another remedy that is effective for dogs who have lost their appetites due to poor digestion. Dogs needing this remedy often have gas, and are usually lethargic and weak. Flower Essence The flower essence Gentian is effective for dogs that show a lack of interest in food and refuse to eat. TopOther "Remedies" for Dog Appetite Loss
Change the Food
Some dogs may stop eating when they want a change in the menu. If your dog stops eating for a day or so but is otherwise healthy, try feeding her a new type of food to
see if the change can do the trick. If she eats the new food heartily, then let her eat the food for a few days and then slowly ease her back into her old diet.
Warm the Food
Dogs (and cats for that matter) love to eat foods that have strong smells. By warming the dog food a bit, therefore, it becomes more aromatic and may just be the way to
get the dog eating again.
Add Natural Supplements to the Diet
If your dog's appetite loss is due to poor digestion or indigestion, give him supplements of
digestive enzymes to help him digest food and absorb nutrients.
If the appetite loss is due to digestion problems (such as diarrhea, gas, vomiting, and so on), supplements of
probiotics are beneficial.
References D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999). R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000). Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005). A.D. Shojai, New Choices in Natural Healing for Dogs and Cats (Rodale Press, Inc., 1999). TOP OF Dog Appetite Loss |
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