Anorexia represents a loss of a dog’s appetite for food. While hunger is considered a physically-driven activity, appetite is mentally derived. Two types of anorexia exist: pseudo-anorexia and true anorexia. Both types of anorexia cause a reduced food intake.
However, a dog with pseudo-anorexia wants to consume food. Therefore, he may want to eat but cannot do so because he finds it difficult to swallow food, chew it, or pick it up. Regardless of whether a canine has pseudo-anorexia or true anorexia, the condition should be taken seriously. This kind of development may indicate a life-threatening illness and therefore requires a visit to a pet clinic in Sugar Land.
Take Your Dog to See a Veterinarian Without Delay
You should take your anorexic canine to a pet clinic in your local area as a dog may not be eating for one of several reasons. First, a veterinarian will determine if a dog wants to eat but cannot consume food or if he truly does not want to eat. Next, the dog will be given a physical exam to see if there is a physical explanation for the anorexia.
Finally, diagnostic tests are ordered to uncover the scientific reason for the loss of appetite. Diagnostic testing may include a CBC (complete blood count), serum chemistry profile, x-rays of the abdomen and chest, electrolytes assessment, ultrasound, or a more invasive procedure such as an endoscopy.
Making a Diagnosis
If you take your anorexic dog to a local pet clinic, the veterinary team can find out the exact reasons for pseudo-anorexia. A diagnosis may include any of the following:
- Stomatitis, esophagitis, or gingivitis
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Pain in the chewing muscles
- Pain in the temporomandibular joint
- A nervous system disease, which impacts swallowing or chewing
- Tumors or cancer of the tongue, mouth, or tonsil
True anorexia also can be attributed to a variety of causes, some of which include a systemic disease; a psychological cause, such as stress; exposure to a poison; an immune system disease; cancer; a GI blockage; a stomach ulcer; excess temperatures; or the side effects of a medication. For more details, visit Site.
