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My dog has Parvo. How long can he go without food on IV fluids?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 9 years and 1 month old | 40 lbs

My dog has Parvo and has been undergoing intensive antibiotic and fluid replacement therapy. He appears to have made it through the initial 4 days of this intensive treatment. I'm concerned though because he hasn't had anything solid to eat for 5 days. My question is how long can the dog go without solid food only receiving nutrition through the IV fluids ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 8th, 2019

I'm so sorry to hear about Liem, I'm sure it is a terrifible time for you. It is very promising that he has made it this far, I honestly would not be overly concerned about the lack of solid food. Fluids are key in this situation and maintaining electrolyte balance is paramount over eating solid food. The guys have been through a lot so will take some time to heal.

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