Tips and Tricks - Dealing with Sick Pets (Symptoms)

Temperature  

Taking a dog or cat’s temperature is easier to do with two people. One person should hold the head, while the other takes the temperature. Temperature should be taken rectally (from the butt). If you have gloves, wear them! Make sure you have a good digital thermometer that works quickly - the quicker, the better. Coat the tip of the thermometer in Vaseline or lube and insert it gently – only up until you no longer see the metal part. Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps, and then remove. You may need to wipe the excess lube off of the rear, but it does not hurt your pet if they lick it off. 

Loss of Appetite  

It is important to let your vet know if your pet stops eating, as this could be a sign of serious illness. You should first try to stimulate their appetite using a variety of foods - some pets get sick of their food easily. Usually, something bland like congee is a good bet. Hand feeding, or offering food by hand, may help tempt some picky eaters’ appetites. You should never force a pet to eat, as there is a risk that they could aspirate and get sicker. But if you have been advised to do so, you can try gently syringe feeding your pet.   

In order to do this safely:

1. Pull up some liquid food into a syringe and bring it to the pet.

2. Let your pet sniff the syringe and then slowly release some of the contents. If your dog or cat licks it up, that is the safest way to get them to eat.

3. Slowly give them the food.

4. Allow them to swallow at their leisure. If they start to vomit, stop.

5. Do NOT feed them more.

6. Always work closely with your vet during this time – they have medications that can help stimulate the appetite, and they may recommend testing to get to the root cause of the low appetite.