My dog is warm, lethargic, and won't eat or drink. What's wrong?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

  Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

  Published on September 3rd, 2017

  Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Lethargy, changes in behavior and possible fever are usually signs of something concerning going on such as systemic infections, pancreatitis, immune-mediated conditions, among many other conditions. If she is otherwise eating and drinking well and she was doing perfectly fine before your guests arrive, it may be something transient. However, given that she is acting so abnormally and there is concern for a possible fever, I recommend that you check her temperature rectally when she is calm. You can use a regular thermometer from your local pharmacy or you may already have it at home. If her temperature is more than 102.5F, have her evaluated right away as that could be something serious. If normal (99.5-102.5F) and really was fine before your guests arrived, and she is otherwise doing fine with normal appetite and water intake, you can continue to monitor her for another 24 hours and if not improved then have her examined. On the other hand, if she does not have a fever but is not eating or drinking, have her evaluated right away to rule out anything concerning such as conditions previously mentioned. Hoping for a quick recovery!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

  Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

  Published on November 7th, 2018

  Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There is no way to know if there is a fever without a thermometer. Based on what you are describing, it sounds like he is quite sick. He should ideally be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. If you are unable to have him evaluated tonight, make sure to do so as soon as possible tomorrow. A fever could be due to many reasons like pancreatitis, an infection, among many other possibilities. Treatment would be based on findings but at the very least they can start him on fluids which can help with a fever. If possible, have him evaluated tonight so that they can start looking for possible reasons to explain his symptoms but most importantly, so that therapy can be initiated. I really hope he recovers well. Good luck and have a good night!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful