Pet First Aid Instructor Level 3 (VTQ) - Online Blended Part 1

188 videos, 8 hours and 55 minutes

Course Content

Loss of Appetite

Video 78 of 188
1 min 48 sec
English
English
Want to watch this video? Sign up for the course or enter your email below to watch one free video.

Unlock This Video Now for FREE

This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.

Monitoring Your Pet's Appetite and Weight: Key Indicators

Understanding Your Pet's Normal Behaviour

Knowing what's typical for your pet is crucial for assessing their appetite:

  • Normal Eating Habits: Recognize your pet's usual eating patterns and behaviours.

Identifying Changes in Appetite

Be alert to shifts in appetite as they may signify underlying issues:

  • Quality and Smell of Food: Consider if there are issues with food quality, smell, or flavour.
  • Observation and Monitoring: Keep a close watch and monitor their condition; try offering treats to gauge their preferences.

Importance of Drinking Habits

Dehydration becomes a concern when your pet stops drinking:

  • Urgency of Hydration: A lack of drinking can lead to rapid dehydration.

Possible Dental Pain

Dental issues may cause discomfort during eating:

  • Potential Pain: Dental problems could be a source of eating aversion.

Appetite Loss as a Medical Indicator

A reduced appetite might signal an underlying medical problem:

  • Early Warning Sign: Loss of appetite could be the first sign of a significant medical condition.
  • Rapid Decline: Extended appetite loss can lead to weakness and health deterioration.
  • Puppy Consideration: In puppies, the impact of appetite loss can be more severe and swift.

Monitoring Weight for Health

Keep track of your pet's weight as it provides valuable health insights:

  • Weighing Your Pet: Weigh yourself and then weigh yourself holding your pet to calculate their weight.
  • Weight Changes: Recognize weight fluctuations; a loss of over 10% of their weight warrants veterinary attention.