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Anorexia in Dogs: Definition, Diagnostic Approach, and Management Plan

Definition

Anorexia in dogs refers to a loss or complete absence of appetite for food. It is important to recognize that anorexia is not a disease in itself, but rather a clinical sign of an underlying physiological or psychological disorder (Nelson & Couto, 2019). It can present in different forms:

  • True anorexia: Complete refusal to eat, typically due to systemic illness.

  • Partial anorexia (hyporexia): Reduced food intake, often fluctuating.

  • Pseudo-anorexia: A condition where the dog wants to eat but cannot due to conditions like oral pain, dental issues, or mechanical obstruction (Tilley & Smith, 2016).



This symptom warrants prompt veterinary evaluation, particularly if food refusal lasts more than 24–48 hours, or is accompanied by other clinical signs such as vomiting, lethargy, or weight loss (Ettinger & Feldman, 2017).


Diagnostic Approach

1. History Taking

A thorough clinical history provides essential clues:

  • Onset and duration of anorexia

  • Any change in diet or feeding habits

  • Environmental stressors (e.g., relocation, introduction of a new pet)

  • Associated symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, or drooling

  • Any medications or potential toxin exposure


2. Physical Examination

A full physical exam should assess:

  • Body condition score and weight

  • Oral cavity for ulcers, gingivitis, fractured teeth, or foreign objects

  • Palpation of the abdomen for pain, distension, or masses

  • Vital signs: temperature, heart rate, mucous membrane color, and hydration status

  • Observation for systemic illness signs such as lymphadenopathy, icterus, or nasal discharge


3. Diagnostic Testing

Test

Purpose

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Detects anemia, infection, or inflammation

Serum Biochemistry Profile

Assesses kidney, liver, and metabolic function

Urinalysis

Evaluates renal function and urinary tract health

Fecal Examination

Screens for intestinal parasites or bacterial overgrowth

Abdominal Ultrasound / Radiography

Identifies GI obstructions, neoplasia, or organ abnormalities

Oral/Dental Examination (under sedation)

Investigates for painful lesions or infections

Advanced Diagnostics (Endoscopy, Biopsy)

For chronic or unexplained anorexia


Management Plan

1. Treat Underlying Cause

The treatment of anorexia hinges on identifying and resolving the primary condition:

  • Infectious diseases: Antibiotics or antivirals

  • Pain or inflammation: NSAIDs, gabapentin, or opioids as appropriate

  • Dental disease: Professional dental cleaning, tooth extraction

  • Gastrointestinal disorders: Antiemetics, prokinetics, or acid suppressants

  • Organ dysfunction: Specialized care, such as renal diets or liver support

  • Psychological causes: Environmental enrichment or anxiolytic therapy


2. Nutritional and Supportive Care

  • Appetite stimulants: Medications like mirtazapine or capromorelin have been shown to stimulate appetite in dogs (Quimby et al., 2021).

  • Dietary adjustments: Offer warm, aromatic, and palatable diets. Hand feeding may encourage intake.

  • Feeding support:

    • Short-term: Syringe or assisted feeding

    • Long-term: Placement of a feeding tube (nasogastric, esophagostomy, or PEG tube)

  • Fluid therapy: Crucial to correct dehydration and maintain perfusion, especially in anorexic patients with vomiting or diarrhea



3. Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Daily monitoring of food and water intake

  • Regular weight checks

  • Repeat diagnostics if clinical signs persist or worsen

  • Educate caregivers on at-home monitoring and when to return for reassessment


Conclusion

Anorexia in dogs is a multifactorial clinical presentation that requires a structured diagnostic approach and targeted therapy. Early identification and intervention are critical to prevent complications such as malnutrition, immune compromise, and organ dysfunction. Veterinary clinicians usually combine diagnostic acuity with supportive care and client education to improve outcomes.


References

  • Ettinger, S. J., & Feldman, E. C. (2017). Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine (8th ed.). Elsevier.

  • Nelson, R. W., & Couto, C. G. (2019). Small Animal Internal Medicine (6th ed.). Elsevier.

  • Quimby, J. M., et al. (2021). Mirtazapine and capromorelin use in small animal appetite stimulation. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 44(4), 513–519.

  • Tilley, L. P., & Smith, F. W. K. (2016). The 5-Minute Veterinary Consult: Canine and Feline (6th ed.). Wiley-Blackwell.

 
 
 

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