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Feeding your dog with quality food is an important step to keeping your companion healthy. But even if you have the best pet food, there are times when a dog may not be interested in food. Is it a pet emergency if a dog won’t eat? Crescent Springs Animal Hospital is a Kentucky emergency vet that says there are many reasons a dog may not eat, and while the problem may not always be a crisis, it is important to stay aware of the situation.

Here are a few common causes and what you can do about it:

Picky Eating

Some dogs are picky eaters from the start. A pup may not be in the mood for a certain type of food or just has certain preferences. If your dog is keeping his or her weight, you probably don’t have a pet emergency on your hands. Try out different foods to find out what a dog prefers, and adjust the feeding environment for greater convenience and ease. It might also be helpful to establish a regular feeding pattern. However, when a dog is losing weight due to picky eating or is normally not particular about food, it’s time to visit a vet for a proper diagnosis.

Too Many Treats

pet emergencyWhile there are many times where treats are appropriate, it’s important to reserve them for special occasions. If you give too many treats, a dog may prefer those over their standard food. When this happens, cut back on treats to balance their appetite.

Strange Spaces

When you move or travel with a dog, unfamiliar surroundings can cause anxiety and reduce your pet’s appetite. If you’re on the go, try to stick to your dog’s feeding routine to establish normalcy. Walking your dog before feeding is another way to lighten anxiety and naturally increase hunger. Motion sickness is another possible cause—discuss potential medication with your vet that can reduce these symptoms.

Vaccinations

A recently vaccinated dog could experience a mild, temporary lack of hunger. When you take your dog to an animal hospital for immunizations, ask about possible side effects so you know what to expect.

Illness

A dog not eating should always be brought to the attention to a vet, especially if other signs of illness are present—such as vomiting or shivering. While not always the case, this problem can be a sign of infection, kidney failure, pain, cancer, or dental problems.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s disinterest in food or have noticed sudden changes in behavior, have the caring staff at Crescent Heights Animal Hospital take a lot. This dog hospital of Crescent Springs can offer insightful diagnosis and solutions to help your pet establish a healthier appetite and boost overall wellness. Call (859) 331-6608 to schedule your pet’s appointment, and discover more about this vet’s nutritional counseling service online.  

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