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Why is my senior chihuahua having diarrhea, gas, and weight loss?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 5 lbs

My 15 y/o chihuahua is having diarrhea with gas, he has lost much weight, but is eating and drinking now after not eating for 4 days. Not sure what to do or think of this?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 30th, 2018

The fact that he lost a lot of weight is concerning. This could point to a gastrointestinal problem but also to a possible tumor. I would take Ozzie to a veterinarian for a geriatric wellness exam with blood work to make sure he is ok. If he still has diarrhea you can try the following: Diarrhea and throwing up can be caused by a food sensitivity, dietary indiscretion, intestinal parasites, an intestinal blockage, bacterial infection, viral infection, the weather, food change, stress, etc. Feed bland food for two days, such as boiled white rice and boiled white boneless chicken meat, fed in small quantities over several feeds and then transition back to regular food slowly over a few days. If this does not clear up the diarrhea or if your dog gets lethargic, he needs to see a veterinarian for an exam as there may be something more serious such as an infection going on.

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