Why is my dog restless, anxious, and "digesting his own protein"?

Question

I took my mixed breed dog to the vet because he was restless and seemed anxious. Just by looking at him, he said that he was digesting his own protein. He didn't go into any details at all, so I am confused what that even means. He did have a fever and was put on antibiotics. I hope you can help. Thank you. Juliann. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 12 years and 11 months old | 68 lbs

Amy Poole, DVM · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry Snickers isn't doing well. I hope the fever has resolved with the antibiotics. His fever is quite concerning for potential infection or inflammation somewhere and I hope the antibiotics have improved him. I am not sure what the diagnosis you received was and I would recommend you call your vet to see if they can give you a better explanation. I would venture to guess the "digesting his own protein" may be another way to say he is muscle wasted. If he is quite ill and not eating enough calories he may be breaking down his own muscle and fat for energy/calories. Again, I hope he is on the road to recovery, but I would recommend calling your vet to see if you can get a better answer as to what is going on, or take him in for a follow up appointment to ensure that he is improving and his fever has resolved.

Why is my dog restless, anxious, and "digesting his own protein"?

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