As a fur parent, you’re probably hands-on with your pet’s overall health and wellness. You know how much your dog weighs and can accurately tell when they’ve gained or lost weight. But how much attention do you give to your dog when they’re losing weight? You might not get bothered if you see your pet gaining weight, and you may think their appetite is normal and there’s nothing to worry about. However, it’s different when your dog suddenly loses weight.
Sudden weight loss in dogs is a major sign that a health condition is brewing, so it isn’t something you should take lightly. Now let’s discuss the reasons why dogs lose weight.
Why Your Dog Is Losing Weight
Sudden weight loss in cats and dogs should be a cause for concern and is something pet parents should not ignore. Below are five of the possible causes to look out for.
1. Food issues
It’s obvious to see dogs eating less if they don’t like something about their food. A change in diet might be to blame, or perhaps a large pack of dog food started to go bad before your pet had finished it. Giving low-quality dog food or feeding them too little can also result in weight loss.
The next time you take your pet to their routine vet exam, don’t forget to ask about the recommended food options and healthy alternatives to keep their appetite healthy. Want to have discounts on your pet’s preventative care and regular vet examinations? Consider getting a dog wellness plan.
2. Parasitic infections
Some types of parasites can cause weight loss in dogs. Any parasites that disrupt a dog’s digestive system or intestines can weaken its appetite, or they may remove important nutrients from the food your dog eats. When this occurs, their weight loss will be noticeable. Infections caused by these parasites are often treated with medication.
Heartworms and other serious parasites may be surgically treated or managed with certain treatments rather than completely removed. The vet can give you directives and suggestions on addressing your pet’s condition. However, parasitic infections and prevalent pet conditions are easily preventable if you’re up-to-date on your pet’s vaccinations and parasite preventive care. You may browse the web for more information on pet preventive care.
3. Gastrointestinal disorders
Any condition that affects your pet’s digestive system and hinders its ability to absorb nutrients and break down food properly can spark weight loss. Dogs may have a healthy appetite, but if their body can’t absorb the nutrients from the food they eat, they’ll continue losing weight. However, dogs with inflammatory bowel disease suffer from severe symptoms like reduced appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, resulting in weight loss.
So if you notice the mentioned signs in your furry companion, don’t delay their treatment to get them back in shape and healthy weight. Go now to a vet internist.
4. Cancer
If your four-legged friend inexplicably or suddenly loses weight, this could be an early sign of cancer. Since cancer robs the body of essential nutrients, sudden weight loss is often the primary sign.
5. Dental problems
Tooth pain makes it challenging to munch on solid foods, which isn’t different for our four-legged friends. Dogs are vulnerable to dental problems like abscesses, which can affect their appetite and cause severe pain.
