Tips on Syringe-Feeding a Dog

If a dog is injured or ill, it may not be able to obtain a nutritious diet in a normal way. Dogs with conditions such as liver disease often lose their appetites and refuse to eat, while dogs with conditions such as paralysis of the jaw are physically unable to take in food. In cases like this, you must provide the proper nutrition for your dog by syringe-feeding.

  1. Basic Method

    • If your dog or puppy refuses food but isn't extremely ill, use a basic syringe-feeding method. With this method, you need a large syringe for adult dogs or a small syringe for puppies. One choice is the 50 ml catheter-tip syringe without a needle. These have a longer end that narrows to a point, which is easier to slip into the animal's mouth. Use liquid formula or pureed wet food only. When the food is ready, place the syringe in the corner of the dog's mouth and depress the plunger. Go slowly so that the dog doesn't choke.

    Tube Feeding

    • In severe cases, you may need a syringe to tube-feed your dog. Before attempting this, get a veterinarian's opinion and have him demonstrate the correct method. In addition to the syringe, you need a soft catheter, the size of which depends on the dog's size. In general, the tube should equal the length from the dog's nose to its last rib. To determine how fast and hard to press the syringe plunger, draw water into it and the catheter prior to feeding. Practice until you're comfortable. When inserting the tube, do so gently and slowly, without forcing the dog to swallow it. The dog should swallow automatically when the tube reaches its esophagus.

    Proper Positions and Techniques

    • When using the basic syringe-feeding method, keep the dog steady. An adult dog should sit up. A puppy should be in a position similar to the one it would take while nursing. Tilt the head slightly back and keep the syringe at a 90 degree angle to the dog's jaw. The food should go behind the dog's back teeth and over its tongue. When tube-feeding with a syringe, place the tube in the front of the dog's mouth rather than the side.

    Dangers

    • Syringe-feeding, if done incorrectly, can lead to a condition called aspiration pneumonia. This occurs when fluid enters the dog's lungs. If the dog coughs, sputters, or has food come out of its nose, stop feeding it immediately and seek veterinary attention. Aspiration pneumonia can be fatal. To prevent fluid from entering the dog's lungs, do not syringe-feed while the dog lies on its back.