Causes Of Lethargy In Dogs
Lethargy in dogs is a very common symptom, given the large number of factors that can cause it. Observing its frequency, the presence of possible associated ailments or if there has been a drastic change in the environment can help to understand the origin of the discomfort.
Lethargy is a state of deep numbness or fatigue, motivated by pathologies, seasonal changes or other alterations in the environment. This apathetic behavior can also respond to the animal’s own laziness, a situation that should not last beyond a few days.
However, when the dog’s drowsiness affects its daily outings, its appetite and its degree of happiness, it is advisable to go to the professional.
Main causes of lethargy in dogs
Among the most common pathological causes are:
- Infections, including parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, and leptospirosis.
- Metabolic disorders, heart and liver diseases, diabetes, and hypoglycemia.
- Anemia
- The presence of intestinal parasites.
- Poisoning by ingestion of toxic or spoiled substances.
- Pain from injury or illness.
To determine if the lethargy comes from an underlying disease, a series of symptoms such as vomiting, whining, diarrhea, etc. will have to be observed. Informing the veterinarian of any unusual event will help the overall assessment of the dog.
Other possible reasons that can cause lethargy in dogs are traumatic experiences, such as the illness of an owner or changes of address. Stress, fear or worry can promote apathetic attitudes in the animal, so that it renounces habitual pleasures such as outings or food.
In addition, this state of drowsiness can occur due to the adverse reaction of a medicine or antiparasitic treatment. The latter, especially those of topical format, tend to have formulations with very aggressive odors that can promote stunning. For this reason, it is convenient to take into account the size of the dog and administer the appropriate dose at the stipulated frequency.
How to deal with inactivity
Once the cause of fatigue has been diagnosed, the veterinarian will send the relevant medication or protocol. In cases of stress, if the animal cannot adapt to the new situation, it may be necessary to go to a trainer or ethologist capable of redirecting depressive behavior.
Until the pet returns to its usual state of mind, with the appropriate exercise and dynamism, it will be necessary to monitor its diet to avoid excess weight. Even so, periods of lethargy in dogs are often accompanied by loss of appetite, so being overweight should not be the main concern.
To determine the actual existence of lethargy, it is advisable to be aware of the recommended need for rest. An average of 10 hours of sleep a day is normal. All this makes the probability of finding the sleeping dog approximately 50%. In this context, it is important to check whether the night’s rest is adequate.
On the other hand, it is important to take into account the age of the pet. Puppies, just as they spend more time eating, must also sleep more. Thus, if during the first months they reach 15 or 20 hours of sleep, there will be no reason to worry. In the same way, dogs, as they age, have more ailments due to the wear and tear of the body, the demand for more rest being totally normal.
Lethargy in dogs, as in people, is a natural response of the body to situations of stress or change. However, when this lasts beyond normal, a review will have to be made to help regain the animal’s mood and activity.
