Why is my senior Lab mix losing weight and drinking excessive water?

Question

I have a soon to be 8 year old Labrador mix. In the last year and a half he has dropped a considerable amount of weight despite the high calorie foods and extras. His hips are bothering him more and more. He has food allergies and his ears become inflamed when he eats certain things. Lately he consumes excessive amounts of water and would occasionally vomited it up after a cough that sounds like he's clearing his throat. I had him checked for all worms and blood tests which were negative. Ideas? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 7 years and 9 months old | 64 lbs

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

Poor Jackson! It does sound like something isn't right. Some common causes of weight loss along with excessive water consumption in a dog this age would include chronic kidney disease, diabetes or Cushing's disease. It would be helpful to know specifically what lab tests have been done and what the results were, since some of these issues don't necessarily show up on routine lab work. Feel free to post another question with more details, or request a consultation with one of us for a more in-depth discussion if you prefer - we would be happy to try and give you some more specific suggestions.

Why is my senior Lab mix losing weight and drinking excessive water?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

Share