My senior dog stopped eating. What to do when vets can't find a cause?

Question

We have a 12 year old cockapoo that will not eat, been to two different vets spent about $1,500 so far every test possible has been done we think and no results. One vet gave appetite stimulant and she would eat a little. Please help. Pet's info: Dog | Cockapoo | Female | spayed | 14 lbs

Ana M, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lady. I'm sorry to hear that she is having these problems. I need a bit more information regarding any other symptoms she is having in addition to the decreased appetite and what testing has been done so far to make a more detailed recommendation. But I can outline my thought process for you. The first thing I would want to rule out is any source of pain on her physical exam. Pain from dental disease, arthritis or back pain can all affect the appetite. Then I would do blood work and a urinalysis. The blood work should include a complete blood count, chemistry panel and a test for pancreatitis known as a cPL. Next, I would do chest x-rays and an abdominal ultrasound. I may consider a trial course of pain medication or an anti-nausea medication. I hope this information is a starting point for you and I am available for a consultation of you want to discuss Lady in further detail.

My senior dog stopped eating. What to do when vets can't find a cause?

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