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Common Questions For Dogs
How can I tell if my dog is losing too much weight?
A dog may be too skinny if you can easily see their ribs, if they have a very pronounced waist when viewed from above, or if they have an exaggerated abdominal tuck when viewed from the side. Regularly checking your dog’s weight using an accurate digital scale is the best way to monitor for significant changes.
Why is my dog losing weight rapidly?
Unexplained weight loss in dogs can be due to several factors, including problems with their diet, increased exercise, stress, dental disease, parasites, or more serious conditions like gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or even cancer. If your dog’s weight loss is combined with other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s important to see a vet.
When should I take my dog to the vet?
Rapid or significant weight loss—more than 10% of their normal body weight—or weight loss accompanied by other signs of illness should prompt a visit to the vet. This is particularly important for older dogs or those with existing health conditions.
How can I help my dog gain weight safely?
Your vet might recommend a high-calorie diet or nutrient-rich food to help your dog regain weight. It’s also crucial to address any underlying health issues, such as parasites or dental problems, that could be contributing to weight loss.
How can I prevent my dog from losing weight?
Preventing weight loss involves feeding a balanced diet, monitoring your dog’s weight regularly, and ensuring they receive regular veterinary care. If your dog is prone to weight loss, discuss with your vet how to maintain a healthy weight and prevent any potential health issues.
Common Questions For Cats
What causes rapid weight loss in cats?
Rapid weight loss in cats can be caused by several underlying health issues. Common causes include hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and various forms of cancer that affect the cat's ability to maintain body weight. Other potential causes include chronic kidney disease, intestinal parasites, and dental problems that make eating painful​.
How serious is sudden weight loss in cats?
Rapid weight loss in cats is generally considered serious and should prompt an immediate visit to the veterinarian. This symptom can be an early indicator of significant health problems, such as organ failure or cancer. Even if your cat seems otherwise healthy, unexplained weight loss often signals that something is wrong and needs to be addressed quickly​.
Can stress or depression cause my cat to lose weight?
Yes, stress and depression can contribute to weight loss in cats. Cats are sensitive to changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home, the loss of a companion, or changes in their routine. These stressors can lead to decreased appetite or changes in eating behavior, resulting in weight loss. However, it's important to rule out medical causes first, as they are more common and can be more serious.
How can I tell if my cat’s weight loss is due to dental problems?
Dental problems can cause weight loss in cats, particularly if they are experiencing pain while eating. Signs of dental issues include drooling, bad breath, difficulty chewing, dropping food from their mouth, or eating only on one side of their mouth.
What should I do if my cat is losing weight but still eating normally?
If your cat is eating normally but still losing weight, it could indicate conditions like hyperthyroidism, malabsorption disorders, or diabetes. These conditions can prevent your cat's body from absorbing or utilizing nutrients effectively. Blood work and possibly other diagnostic tests is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
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Pick a time and get expert care from top veterinarians from home. Our veterinarian will review your pet's medical history in advance.
2
In-home diagnostic testing
If testing is needed, our veterinary nurse team will stop by your home to collect a sample. Currently serving San Francisco, South San Francisco, Daly City, Oakland, and Berkeley.
3
Follow-up care
Follow-up virtual visit with your dedicated veterinarian to discuss testing results, multiple treatment options and recommended treatment plan
4
Get medications shipped to you
We'll ship medications to you. Alternatively, pick them up from your local pharmacy.
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Diagnostics and medications can be added as needed. We offer in-home testing by our experienced veterinary nurse team and ship medications to your home, or you can pick them up from your local pharmacy.