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Why is my dog lethargic, not eating, and constipated after vomiting?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 20 lbs

Three days ago my dog started vomiting foamy white mucus, she did it several times that day. I took her to the vet and he gave her IV fluids and prescribed antibiotics. She hasn't vomited since or had a bowel movement but she is lethargic, and still won't eat. She's only had a couple of ice cubes. All she wants to do is sleep.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on December 18th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Pia! I think it is time for a recheck and some testing. I recommend belly X-rays and blood work. I am always concerned for an infected uterus in any sick intact female dog and believe that has to be rule out first. A pyometra (infected uterus) is a surgical emergency. There are many causes for lethargy, anorexia and vomiting: infected uterus, kidney or liver failure, foreign body (ate something that is stuck and needs surgery to remove), cancer, pancreatitis, other sources of infection or inflammation. I am assuming you have tried delicious things to entice her to eat. If you haven't try some boiled chicken or hamburger with rice, canned dog food or the meat flavored baby foods. I think it is important to recheck and try to get to the bottom of why she is still sick. I hope this helps and I wish Pia the best!

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