What Do You Feed a Sick Dog?
Sometimes we feel worn down and sick. Certain foods make us feel better, including chicken noodle soup as one of the most popular options. You may be wondering what to feed your four-legged friend if they are feeling blue. This article will help you learn the signs that your dog isn’t feeling well, what you can provide them to speed up their recovery, and some tips on how to get them to eat.
Dogs have some of the same signs humans have when they are not feeling well. Vomiting and diarrhea are easily detected signs, indicating mild to severe illness. These symptoms may also indicate other underlying issues such as pancreatitis, intestinal parasites, food sensitivity, kidney disease, or irritable bowel syndrome.
You may need to consult your veterinarian to ensure proper treatment so your dog can feel better. If you cannot get to the vet’s office right away, there are certain foods that you can give them that are easily digestible. Chicken and rice are the most popular food for dogs not feeling well. Keep in mind that the chicken should be white meat with no bone or skin and without seasoning. You may also add broth, but please ensure they are low-sodium.
Eggs may also be considered if fed in small portions. Canned pumpkin is a good option as it is soft. Avoid the pumpkin pie filling, as this is loaded with sugar. Boiled sweet potato is also a good option because it has an excellent source of fiber. You would be surprised to know that baby food can also be given to your four-legged friend.
Most veterinarians recommend a bland diet when your dog is sick. This means the food is easily digestible and can help get your dog’s digestive tract back to normal. You may discover that some dogs are not feeling well enough to want to eat. This may be due to nausea, or maybe they are not interested in the food provided. You can try switching up the type of food to see if they eat. If your dog is still not eating, your vet may prescribe an oral appetite stimulant.
It can be stressful when you have a sick dog in the house. Knowing which foods to give your dog is crucial to its overall health and recovery. If unsure what to do, speak with your veterinarian for advice. Once your dog’s clinical signs improve, you can gradually switch back to its regular diet.