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Dog not eating dog food while on meds, only chicken/tuna. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 9 months old | 39 lbs

Hi, my dog Ruthie is on Gabapentin and she will not eat any dog food wet or dry. She usually eats both. The only thing she will eat is chicken breast or tuna. If I mix it in the dog food she won’t eat. Is this ok? Last time she was on a different medication she did the same thing

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 12th, 2019

If it is temporary (a week or less), its ok for your dog to eat primarily chicken breast or tuna. Try to feed her a little bit of rice mixed with it as well. If she needs to be on medication long term, it would be better to try to formulate a well balanced long term diet that she will eat. Should that be the case, check out this site: www.balanceit.com Thanks for asking PetCoach!

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It would be helpful to know why she is taking the Gabapentin; you didn't mention it in your question If she will not eat it and she must take it, then you need to put it down her throat as shown in this video. If it is not imperative that she take it, then I just wouldn't give it to her. I suggest you call your vet to discuss the situation. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3yHgItqGmo )

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