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How do I get my puppy to eat after being sick and losing her appetite?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 18 days old

My puppy had a lot of symptoms that seemed related to the Parvovirus and because I didn't have the money to bring her to the veterinarian, I could only assume. Turns out she didn't have that, but instead some sort of bacteria...? Again, only an assumption. After nearly a week and some medication, she's returning to her old self, but my question, is there a way to make her appetite come back after all that ?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 3rd, 2019

Her appetite should gradually return if she had an infection that has resolved. I would be concerned if it's been a week and her appetite is still not normal - she could still have some kind of an infection, or she might have something like an intestinal blockage that is causing her appetite to remain decreased. I would recommend seeing a veterinarian if at all possible - you could look into options like Care Credit or Scratch Pay to help with finances.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I am glad to hear that she is feeling better. You can try to entice her to eat by making her some plain boiled boneless, skinless chicken and white rice. This may entice her to eat and then you can start to mix in her regular food. If this doesn't help, I would ask your vet for an appetite stimulant. I hope this helps!

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