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What to do if my unspayed dog is lethargic, won't eat, and in pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 6.5 lbs

Hi, my dog is acting lethargic and will only walk a few steps. She won’t jump off the couch or jump on my bed- which she always does. She won’t even play fetch and that is her favorite thing. She is only eating when I hand feed her and only drinking a little water. Also, sometimes when I touch her side she squeals- not often but every now and again. All of these things have only just started today. I’m worried and can’t take her to the vet until later tomorrow- any advice/help would be great.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 10th, 2017

I'm sorry Scruffy isn't doing well! I see that she isn't spayed, which makes me concerned that her symptoms could be caused by a pyometra. This is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment. It would make her lethargic, not want to move much, reduce her appetite, and will be painful. It could also be that she injured herself causing these symptoms. Because I can't see her in person and rule out a pyometra, my recommendation would be to monitor her very closely. If you see any discharge coming from her vaginal area, her belly becomes larger, she starts vomiting, and/or won't move at all, these can be signs of a pyometra and she absolutely cannot wait until tomorrow to see a vet. In that case, rush her into an ER vet; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet will be found on a clinic's answering machine or website. I would hold off on food after midnight tonight and do not give her any breakfast in the morning in case the vet wants to take x-rays and needs to sedate her. She can have water, however. Rest her as much as possible. Get her into a vet as soon as possible if the symptoms you describe continue in the morning. If she does have a pyometra, spaying her is part of the recommended treatment. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 21st, 2019

    Coco sounds very sick, and she needs to see a vet immediately. I see she isn't spayed, and she could have a condition called a pyometra. This is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment. It could also be she is systemically ill or has an injury. Please take her into a vet now. Best of luck.

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