Long walks and play time might tucker your dog out. But unexplained fatigue and weakness can be a sign of something serious. What causes lethargy in dogs, and what can you do to help your furry companion feel better?
Learn some of the common causes of lethargy in canines and tips from the veterinarians at Hudson Animal Hospital. Use this guide to better understand your pet’s health and keep them feeling their best.
The Importance of Bringing Your Dog to a Vet on the Upper West Side of New York
Did you know that common infections like distemper and leptospirosis can zap your dog’s energy levels? One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is to bring your pet to a veterinarian for routine health check-ups. During a dog’s annual wellness exam, experts check for underlying health issues and often administer vaccinations for common infections.
Preventive veterinary care is essential for any dog owner who wants to keep their four-legged friend happy and healthy. If your dog does not have any standard vaccines, it may be time to visit a vet on the Upper West Side of New York for peace of mind.
Is Your Dog Lethargic? Symptoms To Watch For
Before we explain what causes lethargy in dogs, it’s important to recognize the signs of lethargy. A sleepy dog usually isn’t cause for concern if their day included a lot of exercise. However, a bigger health issue may be lurking if your pup exhibits the following symptoms:
- Increased fatigue: Your pet may spend most of their time sleeping and start moving very slowly.
- Disinterest in daily activities: Take note if your dog suddenly has zero interest in activities they once loved, such as daily walks, play time, or having meals.
- Abnormal hiding: Be mindful of your dog finding an unusual hiding space where they can rest.
- Change in behavior: You’ll know when your dog isn’t acting like themselves. Bring them to a vet to rule out illness or infection.
The Top Causes of Canine Lethargy
If you ask a vet what causes lethargy in dogs, they’ll likely list several possible culprits. Some of the most common causes include:
- Anxiety: To cope with stress or anxiety, animals may show a disinterest in common stimuli like toys or treats and hide from others.
- Pain: Dogs in physical pain may not be as active and resort to sleeping to keep themselves comfortable.
- Medications: Some dogs become lethargic in response to new medications.
- Infections: Both common puppy illnesses and infections seen in adult dogs often cause lethargy and weakness.
- Poisoning: If a dog ingests a toxic substance, their body may start to shut down, leading to lethargy.
- Chronic diseases: Conditions like diabetes, liver disease, and cancer can all impact a dog’s energy levels and overall well-being.
You may be able to identify the cause of your pet’s lethargy by reviewing other changes in their health. For example, if you recently gave them medication for flea and tick prevention, their sluggish behavior is likely related to the treatment. In this case, the symptoms should subside quickly.
If your dog remains lethargic for several days and you aren’t sure why, take them to a vet. Experts can examine them and perform tests to diagnose the exact cause of their lethargy.
Tips for Treating Canine Lethargy
Depending on what causes lethargy in dogs, veterinarians can prescribe various treatments to help them feel better. For instance, lethargy brought on by poisoning may require emergency treatment to remove the toxic substance from the animal’s body. If the symptoms are due to cancer, veterinary teams can explore targeted treatment plans.
As a pet parent, the best thing you can do is give your pup a safe space and monitor their behavior and nutrition. Make sure they have access to plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Offer them food even if they show little interest in eating.
If your vet’s treatment works, you may notice gradual improvements in your pet’s energy level and behavior.
Discover Superior Veterinary Care in New York City
Pay attention to possible signs that your dog is sick and remember what causes lethargy in dogs. If you believe your pet has a dangerous infection or disease, don’t hesitate to bring them to a trusted veterinarian.
New York-based pet owners rely on Hudson Animal Hospital for both preventive and emergency veterinary care. Our compassionate team strives to keep every animal healthy and happy. Give us a call at (212) 706-4088 to schedule an appointment today.