How and what to feed a sick dog? - briefly
When your dog is ill, it's crucial to maintain its nutrition while considering its specific health needs. Offer easily digestible foods like boiled chicken and rice, and consult with your vet for tailored advice.
How and what to feed a sick dog? - in detail
When your dog is ill, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in their recovery. Here's how and what to feed a sick dog:
Firstly, always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's diet. They can provide guidance tailored to your pet's specific health condition.
Hydration: Ensure your dog is well-hydrated. Dehydration can exacerbate illnesses, so offer water frequently and consider adding a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth or ice chips to encourage drinking. If your dog refuses water, contact your vet immediately as this could be a sign of severe dehydration.
Appetite Stimulation: A sick dog may lose appetite. Try warming their food slightly to enhance its smell and make it more appealing. You can also add a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth, baby food (without onions or garlic), or a tiny bit of cooked, unseasoned meat to their regular food.
Bland Diet: If your dog has an upset stomach, a bland diet may help settle it. Cook some plain white rice and boil some skinless, boneless chicken breasts. Mix them in a 50/50 ratio and feed this to your dog for a few days. Gradually reintroduce their regular food once they're better.
Nutrient-Rich Foods: To support your dog's immune system during illness, consider adding nutrient-rich foods to their diet. Pumpkin, sweet potato, and blueberries are excellent sources of vitamins and antioxidants. Ensure these are cooked and unseasoned before offering them to your dog.
Avoid Human Food: While it might be tempting to share human food with your sick dog, many common foods are toxic to dogs. Avoid giving your dog chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, avocado, macadamia nuts, and xylitol (a sugar substitute found in some candies and gums).
Probiotics: Probiotics can help restore the balance of gut bacteria, aiding in digestion and overall health. Consult your vet before adding probiotics to your dog's diet.
Regular Feeding Schedule: Maintain a regular feeding schedule, even if your dog isn't eating as much. This will help keep their energy levels up and encourage them to eat.
Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult with your vet regarding the best diet for your sick dog.