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My senior dog stopped eating. What to do when vets can't find a cause?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cockapoo | Female | spayed | 14 lbs

We have a 12 year old cockapoo that will not eat, been to two different vets spent about $1,500 so far every test possible has been done we think and no results. One vet gave appetite stimulant and she would eat a little. Please help

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 5th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lady. I'm sorry to hear that she is having these problems. I need a bit more information regarding any other symptoms she is having in addition to the decreased appetite and what testing has been done so far to make a more detailed recommendation. But I can outline my thought process for you. The first thing I would want to rule out is any source of pain on her physical exam. Pain from dental disease, arthritis or back pain can all affect the appetite. Then I would do blood work and a urinalysis. The blood work should include a complete blood count, chemistry panel and a test for pancreatitis known as a cPL. Next, I would do chest x-rays and an abdominal ultrasound. I may consider a trial course of pain medication or an anti-nausea medication. I hope this information is a starting point for you and I am available for a consultation of you want to discuss Lady in further detail.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 18th, 2019
Hello,

I become concerned about dogs when they have a decrease in appetite, as it could be due to severe pain or nausea. I recommend having Snowden rechecked by her veterinarian. They can best guide you after a physical exam.
I hope this is helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on September 2nd, 2017
I'm sorry Dixie isn't doing well at the moment! Anorexia and lethargy are unfortunately common signs of a number of different illnesses, such as kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, systemic illness, infection, inflammation, injury, arthritis, or even cancer. Dogs can be very stoic when they are ill, and oftentimes it appears that these symptoms of illness come on suddenly when actually the dog has been ill for a bit. The best thing to do is rest her over the weekend, and have her seen by a vet on Monday for a health check. I recommend doing a geriatric blood panel and urinalysis in addition to a physical exam to survey how her organs are functioning. The vet may also want to do chest x-rays to check on the size and shape of her heart. Using these tests, the vet can hopefully make a diagnosis so that treatment options can be discussed and started. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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