Appetite stimulants in hospitalised dogs: their limits
10-year-old Labrador that underwent surgery for an intestinal foreign body 4 days ago; he had already gone 2 days without food beforehand. He is stable and not vomiting, but eats only a few mouthfuls (less than 25% of RER). The owner asks about an appetite stimulant.
What is the most appropriate approach?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Wait for him to eat on his own: an adult dog tolerates more than 10 days of anorexia without consequences
Malnutrition in hospitalised patients delays wound healing, impairs immunity and worsens prognosis. This dog has already had 6 days of grossly inadequate intake.
B. Give capromorelin and not consider a tube until 10 days have passed
Appetite stimulants rarely enable a hospitalised patient to meet its RER. Delaying assisted nutritional support prolongs malnutrition.
C. Prednisolone as an appetite stimulant
Corticosteroids increase appetite, but after intestinal surgery they delay healing, increase the risk of dehiscence and infection and can cause gastrointestinal ulceration.
D. Place a feeding tube and, if desired, use an appetite stimulant as an adjunct
Correct. After several days of intake well below RER, the priority is to guarantee intake with a tube (nasoesophageal or nasogastric). Capromorelin, a ghrelin receptor agonist, or mirtazapine may help but do not replace it.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Count the days of anorexia from before admission: if there have already been 3–5 days of inadequate intake, consider a tube. Capromorelin mimics ghrelin and stimulates appetite; check whether it is available in your country before recommending it.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.