Lethargy is a common symptom of a vast array of illnesses in dogs. Health conditions that can cause your dog to become lethargic range from parasite infestations to life-threatening diseases. As such, if your pet has become unusually lethargic, you will want to know about some of the possible causes.
Main Causes of Lethargy in Dogs
As stated above, there are many health conditions that can cause lethargy in dogs. Furthermore, while some of these conditions are quite mild and can resolve themselves on their own, others can be very serious and even life-threatening. Although the complete list of these issues is extremely long, you will find some of the main causes listed below:
- Infectious Diseases ( Parvovirus, Distemper, Kennel Cough, Leptospirosis and Heartworm Disease )
- Metabolic and Organic Diseases ( Heart Disease, Liver Disease, Hypoglycemia and Diabetes )
- Various Medications (Especially Human Medications Such as Ibuprofen)
- Improper Diet
- Anemia and Other Blood Disorders
- Trauma
- Any Type of Cancer
- Poisoning and Snake Bites
- Hormonal Problems (Hypo and Hyperthyroidism)
- Immune System Disorders
- Urinary Tract Disorders
- Parasite Infestations
Common Coinciding Symptoms of Lethargy in Dogs
Since lethargy in dogs can be caused by a broad range of pet health conditions, it is often seen coinciding with various other symptoms. However, the symptoms that your pet will exhibit if it is lethargic depends on what is causing the lethargy in the first place. Nevertheless, there are some symptoms that are commonly seen alongside dog lethargy, and they are as follows:
- Vomiting and/or Diarrhea With or Without Blood
- Abdominal Pain and/or Bloating
- Low or High Fever
- Discharge from the Eyes and/or Nose
- Coughing, Wheezing and/or Difficulty Breathing
- Generalized Weakness and/or Exercise Intolerance
- Loss of Appetite, Weight Loss and/or Increased Thirst
- Dehydration
- Depression or Other Changes in Behavior
- Jaundice or Paleness
- Seizures, Tremors and/or Fainting
Diagnosis of Dog Lethargy
Before your veterinarian can begin treating your pet if it is lethargic, a thorough examination will be necessary. You will also need to let the vet know about any other symptoms your dog has been exhibiting. Based on the examination and your pet’s other symptoms, the following tests may be performed on your pet.
- Fecal Exam and/or Urinalysis
- Bacterial Cultures
- Biopsies
- Blood Count
- Biochemical Profile
- X-rays, MRIs and/or CT Scans
- Cardiac Ultrasound and/or Neurological Examination
- Behavioral Assessment
Treatments of Lethargy in Dogs
After your veterinarian has performed all of the necessary tests and made a diagnosis, treatment will then be administered. This can include many different procedures and/or medications depending on your dog’s unique condition. However, you will find some common treatments for dog lethargy -related illnesses listed here:
- IV Fluid Therapy and/or Electrolyte Replacement Therapy
- Antibiotics
- Anti-Nausea Medications
- Anticonvulsants
- Anti-inflammatory Medications
- Cough Suppressants and/or Bronchodilators
- ACE Inhibitors
- Diuretics
- Special Diets
- Insulin Injections
- Chemotherapy or Radiology
- Surgery
- Parasite Control Medications
Lethargy in dogs can be an indication of a large number of pet health conditions. While some of the conditions that can cause your pet to become lethargic are mild, others can be very serious. However, if you notice your dog exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above and take it to your veterinarian right away, you can obtain the proper diagnosis and treatments of dog lethargy. Just like dogs, cats can become lethargic. Get to know all about lethargy in cats.
