Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My unspayed dog is throwing up and not eating. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 33.2 lbs

My dog has not been feelings well. She hasn't been eating and has been throwing up. What can I do

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 9th, 2017

I'm sorry Ruby isn't feeling well! While this vomiting could be caused by a GI illness, I see she isn't spay. That makes me concerned she could be suffering from a pyometra, which is a life threatening infection of the uterus. A pyo would cause her to stop eating and vomit, and it is fatal without treatment. Because I can't see her in person to rule out a pyo, and taking into consideration the seriousness of a pyo, Ruby should see a vet immediately. The vet can do a physical exam, blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays to diagnose what is causing her vomiting. If she does have a pyo, spaying her is part of the recommended treatment. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 28th, 2018

    It sounds like Lucy is quite ill, and I'm very concerned that she isn't eating, drinking, is being sick, and finds it hard to get up to go out. I see that she isn't spayed, and dogs who aren't spayed are prone to developing an infection of the uterus called a pyometra. A pyometra can cause the symptoms you are seeing in Lucy, and it is fatal without treatment. She sounds extremely ill at the moment, and the best thing to do is get her into a vet right away. She needs veterinary care to address her symptoms. Please take her into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Good luck, I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored