In some cases, this is normal and no cause for serious concern — particularly if the weight loss occurs over a long period of time. But in other cases, such as when the weight loss occurs rapidly, you’ll want to seek prompt veterinary care.
You might notice some adjustments in your dog’s behavior, level of activity, and appearance as they begin to get a little older. As dogs age, their bodies will naturally change in a few different ways.
As their energy levels start to decline and they start to spend more time lying around, the majority tend to put on a few pounds. In fact, the majority of veterinarians advise dietary changes to avoid this.
There are several causes for your dog’s weight loss. In general, rapid weight loss is defined as your dog losing 10% or more of their body weight in a short period of time.
Of course, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the issue. Weight loss doesn’t necessarily indicate that there should be cause for concern because all dogs are unique. Understanding the symptoms and knowing when to act are crucial.
Here are some of the most typical causes of weight loss in older dogs and what you can do to help.
Dental problems
If you notice weight loss and…
Possible Cause:
Older dogs’ weight loss may occasionally be brought on by something as straightforward as cracked or decayed teeth, gingivitis, or gum disease. There are more serious oral conditions such as tumors too. As soon as possible, have your dog’s mouth examined by your veterinarian.
When You Should Be Concerned about an Old Dog Losing Weight
What amount of weight loss qualifies as “significant” weight loss, which would at the very least require a visit to the veterinarian?
According to veterinary guidelines, if your dog has lost 10% or more of his normal weight, there may be a problem.
Not panicked, but concerned. Not all weight loss means trouble. Even healthy senior dogs frequently experience gradual weight loss as they get older. Things which can cause this type of weight loss include:
If you lost weight gradually, there’s a lower chance that a serious health issue was to blame. Visit your veterinarian as soon as you can if the weight loss happened quickly and especially if you notice other symptoms. Even if the weight loss is slow or subtle, it is important to rule out an illness in any case.
There are some easy things you can do to help your older dog maintain weight after receiving a clean bill of health, provided that he or she wasn’t overweight to begin with.
Visit your veterinarian for a thorough examination if your older dog has lost 10% or more of his body weight over the past few months (or within a year).
As soon as possible, take your dog to the veterinarian if:
Weight loss in older dogs can be caused by dental issues such as decaying teeth, gingivitis, or gum disease. Your dog may also have a more serious condition such as a tumor. Veterinary experts say that if left untreated, dental disease can lead to other health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. In addition to weight loss, symptoms of dental problems include:
Typically, senior dog owners have difficulty controlling their dogs’ obesity. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimates that 55. 8% of animals are overweight, with older dogs being particularly affected. These dogs can avoid numerous health risks with a planned weight loss program. But in older dogs, significant weight loss is also cause for concern. Take your pet to the veterinarian right away for a health examination if you notice unintentional weight loss. Rapid weight loss, particularly when it occurs quickly, may indicate a serious underlying senior dog health issue.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), most dogs are diagnosed with diabetes between the ages of 7 and 10. It occurs in females twice as often as males, and certain breeds may be more predisposed to the disease. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot use glucose normally, and dogs can lose weight despite eating more food. Other symptoms include:
Chemotherapy, radiation or surgery, or a combination of these can be used to treat cancer in dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, as the cancer research field has grown for humans, there have been great improvements in the care of animals with cancer as well. These improvements allow for more accurate diagnoses and better treatments for dogs.
Unfortunately, your senior dog is unable to communicate his discomfort to you. It’s your responsibility as a responsible pet owner to watch out for any changes. And you must take quick action when you notice that he is beginning to lose weight. He can begin a treatment plan as soon as you take him to the vet for a checkup. When veterinary assistance could give your friend a good quality of life in his later years and prevent suffering, the last thing you want is for him to endure pain.
FAQ
Why is my elderly dog so thin?
As people get older, their hormones can change how their body produces energy. This could leave them being naturally leaner. But when older dogs lose weight, it might also be a sign of a health issue like diabetes, heart disease, or dental disease, which older dogs are more likely to develop.
Why does my old dog feel bony?
If your pet’s vertebral bodies and processes, which are very conspicuous and easy to feel, are easily felt, your pet may have decreased muscle mass and one of a variety of underlying conditions that can cause such muscle loss.
How can I get my senior dog to gain weight?
Dogs who need to put on weight should eat foods high in protein and fat. feeding your dog a diet richer in fat and protein will promote gradual weight gain in your dog. Foods high in protein and fat will help your dog gain weight in a healthy way, and you should see an increase in weight in just a few weeks.
Do Old dogs Go skinny?
The body slows down, uses less energy, and is more likely to store fat as a result. Some dogs lose weight due to poor digestion or illness (always consult your vet if your dog is losing weight); this is the stage of life when those little treats start to catch up.