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My old Chihuahua won't eat or drink. When should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 11 years and 7 months old | 4 lbs

Older Chihuahua will not eat or drink.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Amber Da Silva, DVM

Answered By Amber Da Silva, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 8th, 2017

I'm sorry that Tiny is not feeling well. If this has just started today and there are no other symptoms of illness, you could try enticing her to eat with some plain boiled chicken and white rice or with the canned version of the diet she is already used to eating. If she doesn't start eating and drinking in the next 12 to 24 hours, I would recommend getting her to your regular veterinarian for an exam. If this has been going on for more than 24 hours at this point, especially if she's experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, I would recommend a vet visit as soon as possible. Small dogs are especially susceptible to low blood sugar and dehydration if they don't eat and drink for extended periods of time.
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