What Can You Give Dogs to Make Them Gain Weight After Parvo?

Parvovirus is an infectious canine disease that, left untreated, results in death for close to 80 percent of affected animals. The illness typically affects puppies and is transmitted through contact with the feces of an infected animal. Symptoms of parvovirus include loss of appetite, fever, vomiting and often-bloody diarrhea. Infected animals that receive treatment and survive can lose a lot of weight because of parvo.

  1. Weight Loss

    • A veterinarian should weigh dogs that have been successfully treated for parvovirus enteritis. Some weight loss can be expected with an infection such as parvo. A loss of more than 10 percent of your companion's body weight from an illness may be cause for concern. Consult your vet to formulate a weight-gain plan for your underweight pet after parvo.

    The Right Food

    • Choose the right food for your dog̵7;s nutritional needs after an illness. Underweight dogs should be placed on a palatable high-protein, high-fat diet to help them put a little weight back on. Give your dog a multivitamin, multimineral supplement to boost his recovery and support his weight-gain plan. With the right nutrition, weight gain should begin after a few days.

    Small Meals

    • Change your pet's feeding schedule to three or four small meals a day. Your companion may not have much of an appetite after a serious intestinal infection, such as parvo. One or two larger meals may be too much for an underweight dog's digestive system. Regular weigh-ins are important to monitor your pet's weight gain after parvo.

    Food Temperature and Variety

    • Dog food is typically kept at room temperature. Add a little warm water to dry food, as this makes the food's smell more potent. Your pet may find warmer food more appealing and easier to chew. Place canned food in the microwave for a few seconds. Steam or boil vegetables such as broccoli and add a few florets to your dog's meals. This will add variety and fiber to your companion's diet.