Most dog surgeries are extensive and require general anesthesia.

So it is not surprising that dogs do not feel well after them.

Most dogs take at least a few days to return to their daily routine.

One of the main consequences is the refusal of food.

Here are some steps to get your dog to eat normally.

What Happens If a Dog Won’t Eat After Surgery? 3 Steps You Need to Take

  • Hand-Feed the Dog for a While
  • Try Using Baby Food
  • Make Home-Cooked Meals

Hand-Feed the Dog for a While

Try gently hand-feeding your puppy small bites of kibble or well-cooked chicken.

You can also feed them boiled unsalted potatoes, hardboiled eggs, etc.

Do this slowly and talk to them while you offer plenty of pets and word of encouragement.

You should never force them to eat and rush the process. [1]

It can have an opposite effect and turn them off food more than before.

If your puppy vomits everything you feed them, feed them the food that isn’t too caloric.

Try providing smaller portions at the next meal. [2]

The loss of appetite is a normal consequence of post-surgery.

But if your dog hasn’t eaten anything for more than 24 hours, remember to call a vet.

Patience with your pet is essential since post-surgery can be stressful for both of you. [3]

If you worry about not getting the required nutrition.

Remember that your attitude affects your dog a lot.

If you stay relaxed and calm, they will understand that everything will be okay.

And dogs will believe that you are there to help them through the process. [4]

Try Using Baby Food

It may sound strange, but baby food is the right thing to get after post-surgery for your dog.

Its soft consistency is easy to ingest, and chewing is not required.

Owners may buy jars of baby food. [5]

Another option is to make their own in a blender with the dog’s favorite veggies or carbohydrates.

Before you give them any baby food, you must read the label.

You have to ensure that all ingredients are not harmful to your dog. [6]

Make Home–Cooked Meals

A handmade lunch with a 1:1 ratio of cooked protein and carbohydrates can be beneficial.

You can try boiled ground turkey with rice, chicken with pasta, or fish with potatoes.

You must ensure that it is not overly rich.

So that it does not disrupt their already sensitive digestive system.  [7]

Some dogs dislike their regular kibble or canned meal.

Then you should try boosting it with some delicious protein.

This will not only stimulate their appetite but will also aid in their body’s recovery. [8]

How Do I Get My Dog to Eat After Dental Surgery?

You can get your dog to eat after a dental surgery by providing homemade meals or baby food.

Another step you can take is hand feeding the dog.

After surgeries, dogs lift their nose and don’t put anything in their mouths.

Check out this guide with 5 after teeth cleaning care tips, and what to expect after teeth cleaning.

But this can happen because it feels nauseous from the anesthesia.

Or has post-operative pain.

If the abovementioned steps don’t help, owners must visit the vet for help.

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