As they are known to gobble almost anything that is in sight, it is only natural for dog owners to get a little concerned when their furry pals are not eating. While a loss of appetite may be an indication of a serious illness, it may also be attributed to the case of a picky eater. Today, we find out the possible causes of your pet’s reduced appetite.

Serious Illnesses

Unlike humans, dogs cannot speak, which often leaves dog owners struggling to decipher the external clues or symptoms exhibited by dogs. Pain, stemming from a wound or an underlying condition, can stifle your pet’s appetite causing it to not eat. In this case, it’s prudent to contact your vet should there be other abnormal behaviours.

Drug Allergies

While vaccinations are essential your dog’s health, they can result in mild side effects – one of which is an appetite loss. Contact your vet to ascertain whether appetite loss could be a likely adverse reaction to the vaccine or drug. However, do note that a loss of appetite due to a vaccine or drug reaction should only last for a day or so.

Dental Issues

Dogs commonly experience a lot of dental issues. Since they cannot communicate the pain in a speech like human beings, problems often go undetected. Inflamed or bleeding gums often point to direr underlying dental problems. Gingivitis, oral tumours and broken teeth can cause horrible pain when eating and call for urgent medical attention to resolve.

Changes in Living Environment

Like us, pet dogs react to stressful circumstances – this includes having to adapt to changes in their living environment such as welcoming a new pet, shifting to a new home or adapting to a new facility its pet boarding in Singapore.

Pickiness

It may sound surprising to some dog owners, but pets do develop a taste for a particular food. Therefore, your dog may refuse to eat what it does not like or what it’s not accustomed to. If your pet is on a new diet, it may require some time adapting to the food. As such, we recommend gradually introducing the new diet into its existing one, such as mixing the new type of kibbles into its favourite wet food from an online pet store in Singapore.

While a loss of appetite is not uncommon, it is important to keep a watchful eye on your pet. Should your furry companion exhibit any other atypical behaviours, a trip to the vet is highly recommended.