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Puppy lethargic, won't eat after vet for vomiting. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 month and 29 days old | 4 lbs

I just recently got a puppy - she's eight weeks old and weighs three pounds thirteen ounces. She was throwing up all day today. We went to the vet and she was given IV fluid, fleas medications and some other sort of shot. Tested negative for parvo. Ever since we came back from the vet, she's been very lethargic, only sleeps, won't play and won't eat. Is this normal? Is there anything I should do? I'm so worried.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on May 30th, 2017

Sorry to hear that Bentley isn't feeling so hot. I guess the shot given to Bentley and the behavior to follow would completely depend upon what that shot is. If the shot was something to prevent further vomiting, then it was most likely something like Cerenia. This is an anti-vomiting drug that is usually very effective in accomplishing this unless there is a mechanical issue within the gastrointestinal tract. I have not heard of it causing any sort of sedation. It could just be that your puppy is a little exhausted from all the vomiting that she has been doing. Some of the flea medications depending on the one that was used can cause lethargy. I would find out which one was used and then ask if that was one of the listed side effects. Other than that, if there are no other clinical signs of concern right now and the vomiting has stopped, I wouldn't worry terribly at this point. Wait another 12 hours and see how Bentley is doing. If the condition does worsen before then, give your vet or an emergency vet a call. Hope this helps you out.

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This can be normal as being at the vet and just being sick can literally drain their energy. But with her weight I am concerned it could also be a sign of low blood sugar and that can be very dangerous. Sometimes applying a small amount of Karo syrup to her gums can help with low blood sugar but if she does have low sugar she may need to be hospitalized. I would recommend she to back to the vet to be safe

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