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My dog is sick, won't eat, and vet tests are normal. What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

my 11 yo chihua/rat terrier hasnt eaten in 2 weeks, has minor incontinence. Shes been to vet who ordered labwork, urine and fecal checks, 2 x rays, small ultrasound. All were good! my dog is still so sick tho and lethargic. What can be wrong? What should I do now?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on November 23rd, 2018

That duration of inappetance is very concerning. Did you family vet prescribe some therapy, anti nausea medication? It sounds like your kid needs to see a specialist. For a case like this an internal medicine specialist would be the best person to see. A full abdominal ultrasound with an experienced ultrasonographer (either a radiologist or internist) is likely the first step if blood work and xrays are normal. Unfortunately some pets cases are complex and some disease processes require more advanced testing then what family vets can provide. Likely your family vet has ruled out some common things but an internist will look for the uncommon things. Unfortunately decreased appetite is a very non specific symptom because in animals when they do not feel good for any reason they can stop eating. Your family vet should be able to provide a referral for you if you are interested in this option. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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