{"id":16222,"date":"2026-03-20T09:58:20","date_gmt":"2026-03-20T16:58:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.justfoodfordogs.com\/?p=16222"},"modified":"2026-10-13T16:02:45","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T23:02:45","slug":"appetite-stimulants-for-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/appetite-stimulants-for-dogs","title":{"rendered":"Appetite Stimulants for Dogs"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"16222\" class=\"elementor elementor-16222\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-648b7b4d e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"648b7b4d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9aaa691 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9aaa691\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a dog sniffs their food and walks away, it\u2019s hard not to worry. Your dog may feel less hungry for many reasons, ranging from stress to a brewing illness. Either way, seeing your furry pal refuse food is stressful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An appetite stimulant may help some dogs <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-make-fresh-dog-food.html\">become interested in eating<\/a> again. Under veterinary guidance, an appetite stimulant for dogs is a helpful tool in a pet parent\u2019s arsenal to support nutrition, comfort, and well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a breakdown of appetite stimulants for dogs, including reasons your dog might stop eating and explanations of the most frequently used prescription and natural options to support a healthy appetite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-an-appetite-stimulant-for-dogs\">What is an appetite stimulant for dogs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An appetite stimulant for dogs is a product, medication, or <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/crockpot-dog-food-recipes.html\">strategy that encourages a dog to eat<\/a>. Identifying and treating pain, nausea, or discomfort is always the first step, but if that is not enough, veterinarians may add an appetite stimulant to ensure dogs get the calories and nutrients they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Appetite stimulants work in a few different ways. Prescription medications act on the brain or digestive system to boost hunger signals and help settle the stomach. Natural appetite stimulants for dogs are more behavior-based, such as choosing stronger-smelling food or <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/diy-dog-meal-prep-hacks.html\">preparing foods in special ways<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-causes-of-reduced-appetite-in-dogs\">Common causes of reduced appetite in dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" src=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/dog-eating-from-a-food-bowl.jpg\" alt=\"frenchie getting dinner\" class=\"wp-image-14110\" srcset=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/dog-eating-from-a-food-bowl.jpg 640w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/dog-eating-from-a-food-bowl-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A decreased appetite in a dog is a sign that something about their health has changed, and it\u2019s important to understand the cause before reaching for an appetite stimulant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some of the most common reasons dogs eat less or stop eating:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Illness or infection<\/strong>: Almost any illness can cause a dog to stop eating, including kidney or liver disease, cancer, immune disorders, hormone imbalances, infections, and other systemic issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pain or injury<\/strong>: Pain can suppress appetite or distract your dog from feeling hungry. <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-if-your-dog-is-in-pain.html\">Dogs may experience pain<\/a> from arthritis, dental disease, surgery, injuries, and illnesses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stress and anxiety<\/strong>: Boarding, travel, loud noises, a new pet, or even a different feeding schedule can make some dogs stop eating normally.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Medication side effects<\/strong>: Medications, such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or chemotherapy, can cause nausea or stomach irritation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aging<\/strong>: Senior dogs may eat less because of chronic disease, pain, cognitive changes, or a diminished sense of smell.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digestive upset<\/strong>: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain can occur with short-term or chronic conditions, such as pancreatitis, intestinal disease, or gastritis (\u201cgarbage gut\u201d).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because loss of appetite is a symptom and not a diagnosis, your veterinarian will help identify the root cause before recommending a prescription or natural appetite stimulant for dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-appetite-stimulants-for-dogs\">Best appetite stimulants for dogs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Westway-Studio-JustFoodForDogs-December-01-2025-027-2100x1400-93ed92c9-b07c-4200-9724-abafd50d78bc-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"dog getting food with fresh topper\" class=\"wp-image-15993\" srcset=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Westway-Studio-JustFoodForDogs-December-01-2025-027-2100x1400-93ed92c9-b07c-4200-9724-abafd50d78bc-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Westway-Studio-JustFoodForDogs-December-01-2025-027-2100x1400-93ed92c9-b07c-4200-9724-abafd50d78bc-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Westway-Studio-JustFoodForDogs-December-01-2025-027-2100x1400-93ed92c9-b07c-4200-9724-abafd50d78bc-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Westway-Studio-JustFoodForDogs-December-01-2025-027-2100x1400-93ed92c9-b07c-4200-9724-abafd50d78bc-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some of the most common appetite stimulants your vet may recommend or discuss with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-protein-or-special-treats\">Protein or special treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some dogs simply need a more appealing food. Strong-smelling, high-protein, or meat-based <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/treats\/\">treats formulated for dogs<\/a> added to the food can be a good first-line option to <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-get-your-dog-to-chew-their-food.html\">get a dog to eat<\/a> without unbalancing their diet. Plain, cooked chicken, warmed canned food, or low-sodium broth may also help.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-mirtazapine\">Mirtazapine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that affects brain receptors involved in appetite, increasing interest in food and reducing nausea, so that dogs with chronic diseases eat more overall. Your vet will choose the right dose and schedule based on your dog\u2019s size, health, and other medications they take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-maropitant\">Maropitant<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maropitant, also known as Cerenia, is a very effective anti-nausea drug. It blocks pathways in the brain that trigger vomiting and can help with belly pain. Maropitant isn\u2019t a classic appetite stimulant for dogs, but by easing an upset stomach, it can indirectly help improve appetite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-capromorelin\">Capromorelin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Capromorelin, known as Entyce, is a liquid medication that mimics ghrelin, the \u201chunger hormone.\u201d By activating the hormone\u2019s receptors, capromorelin increases appetite and food intake. Entyce is one of the few products labeled as an appetite stimulant for dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-dronabinol\">Dronabinol<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dronabinol is a synthetic form of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana. It\u2019s used in human medicine to help with poor appetite and nausea and, rarely, as an appetite stimulant in dogs with severe appetite loss. Dogs are extremely sensitive to the effects of THC and dronabinol, so it should be used only under close veterinary supervision\u2014never give human cannabis products to your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tips-to-stimulate-a-dog-s-appetite\">Tips to stimulate a dog\u2019s appetite<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don\u2019t always need medication when figuring out <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/9-creative-ways-to-feed-your-dog-its-meals.html\">how to get a dog to eat<\/a>. Here\u2019s how to stimulate appetite in dogs using natural remedies and tricks you can try at home:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Warm the food<\/strong>: Heat wet food, <a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/nutritionally-complete-homemade-dog-food-recipes.html\">fresh food<\/a>, or a mix of canned food and kibble in the microwave for a few seconds to intensify the aromas.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Adjust your routine<\/strong>: Offer meals at regular times and pick up uneaten food after 15 to 20 minutes. This strategy can help if your dog is simply a picky eater, after your vet rules out a medical issue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reduce stress at mealtime<\/strong>: Feed your dog in a quiet, comfortable spot away from loud noise, other pets, or busy walkways. A quiet environment helps dogs relax and focus on eating, especially those who suffer from anxiety.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Try different textures<\/strong>: Try cans, pouches, stews, and various topper textures to see which your dog prefers consistently. Their preferences may change because of illness or age, so trying a few things can help you figure it out.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Feed small, consistent meals<\/strong>: For dogs with a sensitive stomach or those recovering from a recent illness, several small meals spaced out throughout the day can be easier to digest than one or two large meals. More frequent feeding can also help to prevent nausea from an empty or overly full stomach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-supporting-healthy-appetite-and-overall-well-being\">Supporting healthy appetite and overall well-being<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nutrition is deeply tied to your dog\u2019s overall well-being. When a dog refuses food, it\u2019s harder for them to recover from illness or overcome chronic aging conditions. Treating the problem causing appetite loss usually helps, but when that isn\u2019t enough, an appetite stimulant can make a big difference in your pup\u2019s quality of life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always talk with your veterinarian before trying an appetite stimulant for dogs so they can diagnose the problem and help you craft an overall nutrition plan that fits your dog\u2019s needs and preferences. Whole-food meals are a great option to help support steady energy, digestive comfort, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/daily-meals\/\">daily nourishment in dogs<\/a> recovering from illness, stress, or age-related changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">JustFoodForDogs\u2019 human-grade, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/targeted-nutrition\/\">veterinarian-formulated meals<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/search\/?cgid=justfresh-boosts\">food toppers<\/a>, treats, and supplements support your dog\u2019s nutritional needs and your vet\u2019s treatment plan. Every dog is different, and combining professional guidance with high-quality nutrition and day-to-day support can help encourage a healthier appetite over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faq\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f4c2393 elementor-widget elementor-widget-n-accordion\" data-id=\"f4c2393\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;default_state&quot;:&quot;expanded&quot;,&quot;max_items_expended&quot;:&quot;one&quot;,&quot;n_accordion_animation_duration&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;ms&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:400,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"nested-accordion.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-n-accordion\" aria-label=\"Accordion. Open links with Enter or Space, close with Escape, and navigate with Arrow Keys\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2560\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" open>\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"1\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2560\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><h3 class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> What can I give a dog who is refusing to eat? <\/h3><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2560\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0bbcdb9 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"0bbcdb9\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d1ceec9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d1ceec9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/justfoodfordogs.com\/blog\/how-to-make-fresh-dog-food.html\">Plain, cooked chicken<\/a><\/span>, canned dog food, or a pet food meal topper added to your dog\u2019s food can help encourage them to eat. But if your dog is not acting like themselves, especially if they are drooling, swallowing, or vomiting, or have diarrhea or low energy, you should schedule a visit with your vet. Don\u2019t give any medications until you and your vet know more about the underlying problem.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2561\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"2\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2561\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><h3 class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> How long does it take an appetite stimulant to work in dogs? <\/h3><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2561\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ccfc488 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"ccfc488\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6bc1dda elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6bc1dda\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p1\">Prescription appetite stimulants for dogs usually work within a few hours, though some may take a day or two to reach full effect. Your vet will explain what to expect for a given medication and how long to wait before you check back in.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2562\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"3\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2562\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><h3 class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> What supplements increase a dog's appetite? <\/h3><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2562\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-44bf2d2 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"44bf2d2\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7f33f89 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7f33f89\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p1\">A natural appetite stimulant for dogs can be a supplement or a strategy that makes food more appealing. Warming your dog\u2019s meal or topping food with broth or treats are options to try. Supplements, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/product\/omega-oil-for-dogs\/50020183.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqDKoAAUCZ3-Wz3AQbZ7WjlRo_cJIm_fLyD3Hugrv1Xn2IUvwmF\"><span class=\"s1\">Omega Oil for Dogs<\/span><\/a>, vitamin B-complex, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.justfoodfordogs.com\/product\/probiotic-chews-for-dogs\/50020178.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqaYqPFVMvjm90T-hgHMUzP-fVs0Xk8i4ddZhrws5RkvCYnD0id\"><span class=\"s1\">Probiotic Booster<\/span><\/a>, or calorie gels, may help support appetite by addressing other concerns, such as inflammation, a microbiome imbalance, or a vitamin deficiency. Always consult a veterinarian if your pet is not eating and before starting any new supplements or home remedies.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<details id=\"e-n-accordion-item-2563\" class=\"e-n-accordion-item\" >\n\t\t\t\t<summary class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title\" data-accordion-index=\"4\" tabindex=\"-1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"e-n-accordion-item-2563\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-header'><h3 class=\"e-n-accordion-item-title-text\"> Are appetite stimulants safe for senior dogs? <\/h3><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class='e-n-accordion-item-title-icon'>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-opened' ><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-minus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h384c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class='e-closed'><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fas-plus\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 208H272V64c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32h-32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v144H32c-17.67 0-32 14.33-32 32v32c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h144v144c0 17.67 14.33 32 32 32h32c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32V304h144c17.67 0 32-14.33 32-32v-32c0-17.67-14.33-32-32-32z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span>\n\t\t<\/span>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"e-n-accordion-item-2563\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-97b632c e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-child\" data-id=\"97b632c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8927642 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8927642\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p1\">Appetite stimulants are safe for most pets, including older dogs. If your dog has reduced kidney, liver, or heart function, that may affect your vet\u2019s choice of medication and prescribed dose. If your senior dog loses their appetite, a veterinarian should examine them to determine whether an appetite stimulant can help as part of a comprehensive treatment and nutritional support plan.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What can I give a dog who is refusing to eat?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Plain, cooked chicken, canned dog food, or a pet food meal topper added to your dog\\u2019s food can help encourage them to eat. But if your dog is not acting like themselves, especially if they are drooling, swallowing, or vomiting, or have diarrhea or low energy, you should schedule a visit with your vet. Don\\u2019t give any medications until you and your vet know more about the underlying problem.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How long does it take an appetite stimulant to work in dogs?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Prescription appetite stimulants for dogs usually work within a few hours, though some may take a day or two to reach full effect. Your vet will explain what to expect for a given medication and how long to wait before you check back in.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What supplements increase a dog's appetite?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A natural appetite stimulant for dogs can be a supplement or a strategy that makes food more appealing. Warming your dog\\u2019s meal or topping food with broth or treats are options to try. Supplements, such as Omega Oil for Dogs, vitamin B-complex, Probiotic Booster, or calorie gels, may help support appetite by addressing other concerns, such as inflammation, a microbiome imbalance, or a vitamin deficiency. Always consult a veterinarian if your pet is not eating and before starting any new supplements or home remedies.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Are appetite stimulants safe for senior dogs?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Appetite stimulants are safe for most pets, including older dogs. If your dog has reduced kidney, liver, or heart function, that may affect your vet\\u2019s choice of medication and prescribed dose. If your senior dog loses their appetite, a veterinarian should examine them to determine whether an appetite stimulant can help as part of a comprehensive treatment and nutritional support plan.\"}}]}<\/script>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-87ab0c4 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"87ab0c4\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b269b4b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b269b4b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"p1\"><i>This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and\/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and\/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.<\/i><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When a dog sniffs their food and walks away, it\u2019s hard not to worry. Your dog may feel less hungry for many reasons, ranging from stress to a brewing illness. Either way, seeing your furry pal refuse food is stressful. An appetite stimulant may help some dogs become interested in eating again. Under veterinary guidance, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":18,"featured_media":14567,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_jffd_show_updated":"","footnotes":"","_ppma_block_editor_authors":"{\"authors\":[286,289],\"author_categories\":{\"286\":\"1\",\"289\":\"3\"},\"fallback_author_user\":\"14\",\"ppma_author_box_select\":\"\",\"selected_authors\":[{\"id\":286,\"display_name\":\"Elizabeth Kowalski, CVT, FFCP\",\"is_guest\":0,\"category_id\":\"1\"},{\"id\":289,\"display_name\":\"Angela Beal, DVM\",\"is_guest\":0,\"category_id\":\"3\"}]}"},"categories":[70],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[286,289],"class_list":["post-16222","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nutrition"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO 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