Weight loss is considered to clinically significant when it exceeds 10% of the normal body weight. It can be associated with many normal and abnormal conditions.
Causes of Weight loss:-
- inadequate or poor quality diet
- insufficient quantity of food intake due to lack of appetite, swallowing disorders .
- excessive loss of nutrients or fluid from vomiting, diarrhea or excessive urination
- high energy demand due to excessive physical activity or prolonged exposure to cold environment.
- a hypermetabolic state in which the body burns calories at a faster rate due to an underlying illness.
- decreased ability to digest or absorb nutrients from food.
Other signs you should look for:-
- is your dog’s appetite increased or decreased?
- how and where do you store your food?
- does your dog have any trouble swallowing?
- does your dog have a fever?
- what kind,when,and how much dog food are you feeding your dog?
- have you observed any regulations or vomiting, diarrhea, loose stools or changer in water consumption or urination?
- what color and consistency are your dog’s stools?
- is there a change in volume or frequency of stools?
- has your dog has been spayed or neutered?
- is your dog on any other medications or supplements?
Diseases that can cause weight loss
- anorexia(lack of appetite) due to behavioral conditions or disease.
- pseudo anorexia caused by loss of smell, inability to grasp or chew food, swallowing disorders.
- malabsorptive disorders, maldistion disorders, metabolic disorders such as diabetes and cancer.
- disease involving the major organs such as heart, liver or kidneys.
- central nervous system disease causing depression, anorexia .
- swallowing disorders.
- neuromuscular disease resulting in weakness or paralysis.
Weight loss diagnosed or treatment:-
A thorough medical history and physical examination will help your veterinarian determine the most useful diagnostic test to perform. Blood and urine tests and X-rays are the most commonly recommended diagnostic tests. Ultrasound may also be recommended.
Treatment will be determined by the specific cause of your dog’s weight loss. Once a specific diagnosis is made, treatment resolve the problem or improve your dog’s quality of life will be immediately initiated.
If your see any of the symptoms listed above in your dog, Please visit Parkgate Animal Hospital in North Vancouver or give us a call at 604-929-1863 to get peace of mind knowing your pet is in good health and spirits.
