Could Excessive Hunger in an Elderly Toy Poodle Indicate a Stomach Tumor?

Dear VetBabble: My Elderly Toy Poodle Seems Excessively Hungry, Could a Stomach Tumor Be the Cause?

We all want to ensure we are taking the best care of our beloved pets. You might have questions like “I have a 14+ year old Toy Poodle with a stomach-area tumor the size of a 50 Cent piece – would this cause her to act excessively hungry?”, and want answers that cover any possible scenario for your concern. Let’s dive into each potential factor contributing to your dog’s possible increased hunger, to put your mind at ease.

Cancer & Hunger Relationship

Often when we notice a change in our pet’s appetite, it can be hard not to jump to worrisome conclusions. Stomach tumors, like the one in your toy poodle, can sometimes influence a pet’s appetite. However, it’s more common that a stomach tumor would decrease a pet’s appetite, rather than increase it. It’s less probable that the stomach tumor is making your dog feel extremely hungry but it’s always a possibility. You always want to keep your vet informed about changes you notice in your furry friend’s behavior or eating patterns to ensure their care is tailored to their individual needs.

Possible Underlying Issues

Your poodle’s excessive hunger might be a sign of other underlying health problems or conditions. One common condition that contributes to increased hunger in dogs is intestinal parasites. These nefarious hitchhikers live in the gut and take nutrients from your dog’s meals, often causing them to feel hungrier than usual. Diarrhea is another common sign of intestinal parasites. If you’re wondering “Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?“, various parasites might be the cause. Thus, ensure that your dog is regularly dewormed and if you notice symptoms such as diarrhea, don’t hesitate to book a vet visit. However, intestinal parasites aren’t the only reason your dog might be acting hungrier than usual. It could also simply be that their dog food isn’t high enough quality, leaving them feeling unsatisfied and hungry soon after eating.

Obesity and Nutrition

An increased appetite in your toy poodle may not necessarily be cause for immediate concern, but it does highlight the need to monitor their overall health and weight. Hunger isn’t always related to how much your dog is eating, but rather what type of food they’re consuming. A balanced diet of high-quality, nutrient-dense food can ensure that your pooch is getting all the nutrients they need without needing to consume excessive amounts, reducing the risk of over-feeding and potential obesity. Speaking of obesity, it might be useful to keep an eye on your dog’s weight. Ongoing hunger might lead to overeating and thus unwanted pounds. Understand more about Obesity in Dogs to ensure a balanced diet and lifestyle for your Toy Poodle. If your dog does pack on some extra pounds, don’t worry. There are many steps you can take to help them get back to a healthy weight, including these 10 Simple Tips to Help Your Dog Lose Weight. Remember, always consult your vet before embarking on a weight loss journey for your furry friend. It’s essential for your pet’s well-being to maintain open communication with your vet and always report any noticeable changes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if you have any concerns about your pet’s health. Your pet’s health is very important, and every piece of information can help provide the best care possible.