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My dog hasn't eaten for a week and has worms. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 7 lbs

My dog hasn't eaten anything in a week and we are having to give him his electrolytes through a syringe he takes by mouth and I don't know what to do to make him eat he has been to a vet and they said he is fine but I don't believe it for a second. Can you help me? Boots has worms

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on June 11th, 2018

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If Boots has worms in his stool, this may be contributing to him not wanting to eat. Parasitic infection if they are severe enough can cause decreased appetite, upset stomach among other symptoms. He will need to have a fecal test to help determine what worm is presenting and dewormed appropriately. Clearing the parasitic infection up may help him feel better, however, there could be other causes to his not eating as well that will need to be ruled out with a veterinarian. Although appetite stimulants may help increase his appetite a bit, I would recommend Boots see a veterinarian to have a fecal test and other testing as needed so a diagnosis can be reached and Boots can start feeling better. Best of luck to you and Boots!

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    Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Not eating for 1 week is very concerning. I would be worried about a blockage in his stomach or a severe gut bug. I would recommend a revisit with a vet. I would recommend performing x-rays to see if there are any signs of a blockage, and bloodwork to check for hydration, signs of infection, and signs of organ disease. Your vet, from these diagnostics, might recommend IV fluids, hospitalization, and possible surgery. I hope Boots feels better soon! Also, if he has worms, a dewormer is needed to kill the worms so he can pass them and feel better.

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