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Why is my dog with pancreatitis still not eating and losing weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 9 years and 8 months old | 11 lbs

My dog has been to vet 6x this week: lethargy, pain when going up/down stairs, loss of appetite, fever, occasional gagging. Ultrasound and Bloodwork revealed mild pancreatitis, and he's been doing a bit better the past few days with symptomatic treatment. But his eating is now up/down (sometimes eats, other times shows interest, but gags) and he still seems sore going up/down stairs. He's lost some weight and vet is worried there could be an obstruction in GI Tract (but scope is $$$). Any ideas?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 17th, 2017

Poor guy. An obstruction is something to consider; however uncommon in older dogs. I would be inclined to look at all the lab findings in detail to give you more specific recommendations on what is likely your next best step for Barrington. If he does have pancreatitis then he may need to be hosptilalized with I.V. fluids, antinausea medicaitons antibiotics and pain meds given as an injection to help get him back to healthy status. I hope this helps and feel free to request a consultation to discuss his case in more detail. I hope that Barrington is able to make a full and speedy recovery. Best wishes and take care.

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