Reasons Why Your Cane Corso Might Not Be Eating

As a pet parent, seeing your beloved Cane Corso refuse to eat can be distressing. It can be even more worrying if your furry friend has been an enthusiastic eater up until this point. Here are some possible reasons why your Cane Corso might not be eating and what to do about it.

1. Health Issues

If your Cane Corso suddenly stops eating, it could be a sign of an underlying medical problem. Some Cane Corsos may refuse to eat due to dental issues, gastrointestinal problems, infections, allergies, or chronic pain. In some cases, it may even be a sign of a life-threatening illness.

If you suspect that your Cane Corso’s lack of appetite is due to a health issue, it is important to take them to a veterinarian for a consultation. Your vet will be able to perform a physical exam and run tests to diagnose any underlying health problems.

2. Age

Like humans, dogs’ metabolism slows down as they get older, causing them to lose their appetite. Decreased activity levels, dental problems, and medication side effects are some of the reasons why older dogs may refuse to eat.

If your Cane Corso is a senior, consider changing their diet to foods that are more formulated for their age group. Look for specialized senior dog food options that are high in healthy fats, low in calories, and rich in vitamins and minerals. These types of food will help to address any nutrition deficiencies and improve their digestion.

3. Change in Diet

Cane Corsos can be particularly picky when it comes to food. If you have recently changed your Cane Corso’s diet, it may be the cause of their lack of appetite. Sudden changes in their food can also lead to digestive problems and diarrhea.

To avoid this, gradually introduce new food into your Cane Corso’s diet over a period of a few days or weeks. This approach will allow your furry friend to slowly adjust to the taste and texture of the new food while avoiding the discomfort that comes with sudden feeding changes.

4. Stress or Anxiety

Just like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety, and it can manifest itself in different ways, including loss of appetite. If your Cane Corso is feeling stressed or anxious, they may refuse to eat or lose interest in food.

Identify causes of stress or change in your Cane Corso’s routine, such as moving houses or a new pet, and make efforts to address those issues. Give your pet plenty of exercise and playtime, and consider interactive feeders or puzzles to help stimulate their appetite.

5. It’s Just a Phase

In some cases, Cane Corsos may go through phases where they lose interest in food. This may happen if they have overfed or eaten too many treats recently.

In such cases, consider cutting back on their treats and monitor their diet to ensure that they aren’t overfeeding. Stick to regular feeding times and avoid constantly leaving food out so that your Cane Corso always knows when it’s mealtime.

6. Eating Habits

Cane Corsos are notorious for being greedy eaters, but sometimes, it works against them. When they gulp down their food too quickly, they may develop digestive problems that can interfere with their appetite.

To avoid this, try introducing slower feeding methods like puzzle feeders or splitting their meals into smaller portions throughout the day. You can also elevate their feeding bowls to make it easier for them to chew and swallow their food.

There are different types of anorexia.

Anorexia, or loss of appetite, can affect dogs for various reasons, and there are different types of anorexia that you should be familiar with. Knowing the different types can help you identify potential underlying causes and take appropriate action accordingly. Here are the different types of anorexia to be aware of:

1. True Anorexia

This type of anorexia occurs when your dog has no interest in eating despite an empty stomach. True anorexia can be caused by numerous factors, such as a change in environment, stress, anxiety, or an underlying medical condition.

If your dog shows signs of true anorexia and is losing weight, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to identify the cause and help your dog regain their appetite.

2. Pseudo-Anorexia

Pseudo-anorexia, also known as apparent anorexia, is when a dog is interested in eating but unable to due to various factors. For example, dental problems or injuries in the mouth can prevent a dog from eating comfortably.

If your dog seems to want to eat but is having difficulty, contact your veterinarian to check for any underlying dental or oral issues.

3. Behavioral Anorexia

Behavioral anorexia occurs when a dog chooses not to eat due to stress, anxiety, or changes in their daily routine. Dogs who are anxious or frightened may refuse to eat, while dogs who suffer from separation anxiety can exhibit loss of appetite when left alone.

If your dog shows signs of behavioral anorexia, it is important to identify the cause of the stress and work on developing a consistent routine to soothe their anxiety.

4. Medical Anorexia

Medical anorexia is characterized by a decrease in appetite due to a medical condition, such as gastrointestinal problems, infection, cancer, or liver disease. This type of anorexia is often prolonged and requires immediate medical attention.

If your dog has medical anorexia, it is essential to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.

What is the treatment for anorexia?

Treating anorexia in dogs can be challenging, as the underlying cause can vary. However, the goal of treatment is to address the underlying reason for your pet’s loss of appetite and to help them regain their appetite to prevent further health complications.

Here are some common treatments for canine anorexia:

1. Addressing Underlying Medical Issues

If an underlying medical condition is causing your dog’s loss of appetite, it is essential to address this first. Your veterinarian may perform diagnostic tests to identify the medical issue, and the resulting treatment will depend on the diagnosis. Treatment options may include medication, surgery, or other medical interventions, depending on the underlying condition.

2. Appetite Stimulants

Appetite stimulants are medications that can help increase your dog’s appetite. Your veterinarian may recommend an appetite stimulant if your dog has a temporary loss of appetite due to a minor illness or a mild infection.

A recommended appetite stimulant is Mirtazapine, which can be prescribed under veterinary supervision.

3. Feeding Tube

In severe cases, feeding your dog through a feeding tube may be necessary. This will ensure they receive the necessary nutrients to prevent malnutrition and weight loss. This treatment option is usually considered as a last resort, and only considered when all other methods have failed.

4. Change of Diet

If your dog’s loss of appetite is linked to their diet, a change in food could help stimulate their appetite. Be sure to speak with your vet before doing this, as they will be able to recommend foods that are suitable for your dog’s needs and medical condition.

5. Home Remedies

There are some home remedies you can try to help stimulate your dog’s appetite, such as tempting them with tasty food and feeding in a quiet, comfortable area. You can also try adding wet dog food or broth to their regular food or hand feeding smaller, more frequent meals.

Conclusion

If you notice that your Cane Corso has stopped eating, it is essential not to panic. Knowing the potential reasons for their lack of interest in food can help you identify the root cause and take appropriate measures to stimulate their appetite.

However, if your Cane Corso’s loss of appetite persists for more than a few days or appears to be getting worse, visit your veterinarian immediately. With proper care and attention, your furry family member will soon be enjoying their meals again.