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My dog won't eat his food after being neutered. What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Havanese | Male | neutered | 2 years old

Hello there! My dog was just neutered yesterday and he isn’t eating his dog food regularly. he seems to want treats but not interested in food. What should I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on June 22nd, 2018

He may still be a bit groggy or nauseous from anesthesia yesterday or he may be a bit painful still. If he doesn't have pain medication, contact your vet and ask the something be dispensed.
Mix in some warm water or a teaspoon of baby food with his food to stimulate his appetite. You can also offer a bland diet of plain white rice mixed in equal parts with boiled boneless/skinless chicken breasts. Once he begins eating, transition him slowly to his regular diet.
Make sure he has water or some unflavored PediaLyte to drink to prevent dehydration.
This should pass in the next 24 hours. Monitor for lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain. If Odin doesn't begin eating in the next 24-36 hours, have him examined by your veterinarian.
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