As a pet owner, it can be concerning when your furry friend is not eating, especially when they are sick. There are several reasons why a dog may not have an appetite, including an upset stomach, fever, and underlying health conditions. Here are some tips on what to feed a sick dog with no appetite.
Chicken and Rice: Boiled chicken and rice are gentle and easy-to-digest ingredients that are often recommended for dogs with upset stomachs. To prepare this meal, simply boil some chicken and rice until cooked through and mix together.
Shredded Chicken: Another great option is to boil shredded chicken and feed it to your dog in small portions.
Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin is high in fiber and can help soothe an upset stomach. Mix a tablespoon or two of canned pumpkin into your dog’s food to entice them to eat.
Bone Broth: Homemade bone broth is rich in nutrients and can help stimulate a dog’s appetite. Simmer some beef or chicken bones in water for several hours and then strain the broth. Offer it to your dog in small amounts to encourage them to drink.
Baby Food: Baby food, especially those with chicken or beef flavors, can be an appetizing option for a sick dog. Look for baby food with simple ingredients and no added sugar or salt.
Prescription Diets: If your dog is very sick or has a specific health condition, your veterinarian may recommend a prescription diet that is specially formulated to meet their nutritional needs.
If your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea, it’s essential to give them bland foods that are easy on their digestive system. Stick to the same bland diet options mentioned above, but make sure to avoid any spices or seasonings. Additionally, make sure your dog is drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
If your dog is not eating, there are some methods you can use to encourage them to eat. You can try changing their food brand, heating up their food, or hand-feeding them. Also, adding some low-sodium chicken or beef broth to their food can make it more appealing.
It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian if your dog is sick and not eating. They can recommend appropriate treatments, such as appetite stimulants or medication, and ensure your dog gets the necessary care.
FAQs about foods for sick dogs
We’ll answer some of the most common questions about what to feed a sick dog with no appetite.
What can I feed my dog if they’re sick and won’t eat?
When your dog is sick and won’t eat, it’s important to offer them something light and easy on their stomach. Some good options include boiled chicken and rice, shredded chicken, bone broth, pumpkin, and baby food (make sure it doesn’t contain onion or garlic).
Can I give my dog eggs if they’re sick?
Yes, eggs can be a great option for dogs who are sick and not eating. They’re high in protein and essential fatty acids and can help settle your dog’s stomach. Cooked or boiled eggs are best, and you should avoid giving your dog raw eggs.
What about canned food?
Canned food can be a good option for sick dogs, but you should choose a high-quality, grain-free option that doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial ingredients. You can also mix the canned food with some warm water to make it more appealing and easier to eat.
Should I give my dog any supplements?
Supplements can be helpful in supporting your dog’s immune system and digestive health while they’re sick. Some good options include probiotics, digestive enzymes, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, you should always consult with your vet before giving your dog any new supplements.
How can I stimulate my dog’s appetite?
If your dog is feeling sick and not eating, there are several things you can do to stimulate their appetite. Offer them small meals throughout the day, add some warm water or low-sodium chicken broth to their food, and try hand-feeding them to make mealtime more appealing. You can also talk to your vet about using appetite stimulants like capromorelin.
Is it safe to give my sick dog human food?
While some human foods can be safe and even beneficial for dogs, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before feeding your sick dog any human food. Some human foods can be toxic to dogs, and others may not provide the right balance of nutrients that a sick dog needs.
Can I give my sick dog canned or wet food instead of dry food?
Canned or wet food can be easier to digest for dogs with no appetite or digestive issues. These types of food also tend to have a stronger aroma and flavor, which can help stimulate a dog’s appetite. However, it’s important to choose a high-quality canned or wet food that is nutritionally balanced and free from artificial additives.
How often should I feed my sick dog if they are not eating much?
It’s important to offer small meals frequently throughout the day, rather than one or two large meals. This can help prevent your dog from feeling overwhelmed and encourage them to eat more. Depending on your dog’s size and condition, you may need to offer food every few hours or even every hour.
Can I give my sick dog treats or table scraps to encourage them to eat?
While treats and table scraps can be tempting to offer as a way to get a sick dog to eat, it’s best to avoid them. Treats and table scraps may not provide the right balance of nutrients that a sick dog needs, and they can also upset a dog’s stomach. Stick to high-quality, nutritionally balanced food recommended by your veterinarian.
What should I do if my sick dog refuses to eat anything?
If your dog refuses to eat anything for more than a day or two, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. Your dog may require more aggressive treatment, such as appetite stimulants or IV fluids, to get them back on track. Your veterinarian can also help determine if there are any underlying health issues that need to be addressed.
Can I give my sick dog water?
Yes, it’s important to make sure your sick dog stays hydrated. Offer your dog fresh, clean water frequently, but avoid giving them too much water at once, as this can lead to vomiting.
Can I force-feed my sick dog if they won’t eat?
It’s generally not recommended to force-feed a sick dog, as this can cause further stress and discomfort for the animal. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog’s individual needs.
How can I encourage my sick dog to eat?
There are several things you can try to encourage your sick dog to eat, including offering them small amounts of food frequently, warming up their food, or offering them a bland diet of chicken and rice. Additionally, appetite stimulants may be prescribed by your veterinarian to help stimulate your dog’s appetite.
What should I do if my sick dog has diarrhea?
If your sick dog has diarrhea, it’s important to offer them plenty of water to prevent dehydration. You can also offer them a bland diet of chicken and rice, which is easy to digest and can help firm up their stools. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog’s individual needs.
Can I give my sick dog medication to treat their vomiting?
It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving your sick dog any medication to treat their vomiting. Certain medications can be harmful to dogs or may interact with other medications they’re taking. Your veterinarian can prescribe safe and effective medication for your dog’s specific needs.
How can I tell if my sick dog is dehydrated?
Signs of dehydration in dogs include dry or sticky gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and loss of skin elasticity. If you suspect that your sick dog is dehydrated, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian right away to prevent further complications.
My dog has been diagnosed with pancreatitis. What should I feed him?
Dogs with pancreatitis need a low-fat diet to help reduce inflammation in the pancreas. You should feed your dog a diet that contains no more than 10-15% fat. Some good options include boiled chicken, low-fat cottage cheese, and boiled rice. You should avoid feeding your dog any fatty meats or high-fat treats, as these can worsen the symptoms of pancreatitis.
My dog has dental problems and can’t eat hard food. What can I feed him?
Soft, wet food is a good option for dogs with dental problems. You can also try soaking dry food in water or low-sodium broth to make it easier for your dog to eat. Another option is to feed your dog a prescription dental diet, which is designed to help clean your dog’s teeth while he eats.
My dog has kidney disease. What should I feed him?
Dogs with kidney disease need a diet that is low in protein and phosphorus, as these can be hard on the kidneys. Your veterinarian may recommend a prescription kidney diet that is specifically formulated for dogs with kidney disease. Some good options include boiled chicken, white rice, and low-phosphorus vegetables like green beans or carrots.
My dog has diabetes. What should I feed him?
Dogs with diabetes need a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This can help regulate their blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in insulin. Some good options include boiled chicken, lean ground beef, and green beans. You should avoid feeding your dog any foods that are high in sugar or carbohydrates, as these can cause their blood sugar to spike.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
