Why Your Two-Month-Old Puppy Isn't Eating and How to Feed It

A two-month-old puppy refusing to eat can be concerning for pet owners. Several factors could be at play, including pickiness, gastrointestinal issues, parasites, or underlying illnesses. Understanding these potential causes and knowing how to address them is crucial for your puppy's health. Here's how you can help your puppy regain its appetite.

Possible Reasons for Loss of Appetite

1. Picky Eating Habits:

If your puppy only wants meat and refuses kibble, try a temporary fasting period of a day, ensuring access to fresh water. Encourage physical activity to increase their energy expenditure. When they are hungry and tired, they are more likely to eat their kibble. Remember, a balanced diet is key, so avoid feeding only meat and neglecting dog food, vegetables, and fruits.

2. Gastrointestinal Problems:

If your puppy still refuses food after fasting for a day or two, they may have digestive issues. Consider giving them digestive enzyme supplements and probiotics to help restore their appetite. Plain yogurt can be a good addition that some puppies enjoy and can further promote healthy gut bacteria. If these measures don't work, it's essential to consider other possible causes like internal parasites.

3. Internal Parasites:

Regular deworming is necessary for puppies every one to three months. If you have forgotten to deworm your puppy, intestinal parasites could be causing the loss of appetite. A deworming medication suitable for puppies is necessary to address the issue. After deworming, if your puppy experiences diarrhea, consider a probiotic supplement to help balance their intestinal flora and ease discomfort.

4. Other Illnesses:

A decreased appetite is a common symptom of many illnesses, some of which can be serious, like distemper or even cancer. If you notice additional signs such as lethargy, weight loss, fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, it's important to seek veterinary care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for your puppy's recovery.

How to Feed a Two-Month-Old Puppy

Two-month-old puppies should be fed a high-quality puppy-specific kibble. Feeding 3-4 times a day is generally recommended. Clean your puppy with a warm, damp cloth and brush their coat regularly. Clean their ears routinely, and provide chew toys, such as dental chews, to promote dental health. Engage in play with your puppy, but avoid taking them outdoors until they have completed their vaccination schedule to prevent exposure to infectious diseases.

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