It’s deeply distressing to watch your dog struggle with heart failure and then refuse to eat.
We outline the common causes of dog has congestive heart failure and is not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Has Congestive Heart Failure and Is Not Eating — Why It Happens
When a dog has congestive heart failure (CHF), a loss of appetite is often one of the earliest warning signs of trouble.
This serious condition occurs when the heart can no longer pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs or abdomen. As this fluid accumulation increases, your dog may begin to feel nauseated, struggle to breathe, or feel too fatigued to eat. Sometimes the medications used to treat CHF can also reduce appetite or cause gastrointestinal upset.
In dogs with advanced heart failure, poor circulation and low oxygen levels can affect major organs like the liver and kidneys, worsening nausea and appetite suppression. All of this can contribute to lethargy, discomfort, and rapid decline.
Common Causes of Dog Has Congestive Heart Failure and Is Not Eating
Heart Failure Progression
As CHF advances, fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) or around the abdominal organs (ascites) causes significant discomfort.
This fluid congestion can make breathing difficult, especially after eating, and create a sense of fullness or nausea.
Your dog may cough, pant, and appear restless or unwilling to lie down. These symptoms often suppress appetite.
The energy it takes just to breathe becomes too overwhelming, and your dog may avoid eating altogether.
Medication Side Effects
Medications like diuretics (e.g., furosemide), ACE inhibitors, or pimobendan are commonly prescribed for dogs with CHF.
While these drugs help manage fluid overload and improve heart function, they can also cause side effects.
Loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea are relatively common, especially during the initial adjustment phase.
If the dose is too high or not well-tolerated, your dog may become dehydrated or experience electrolyte imbalances, leading to further appetite loss.
Read more: Old Dog Breathing Heavy and Not Eating (Here’s why)
Nausea from Poor Circulation
Dogs with heart failure often suffer from reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract.
This poor perfusion can lead to nausea, bloating, or even delayed gastric emptying, making meals unappealing or uncomfortable.
Your dog may approach their food bowl and then walk away, lick their lips frequently, or drool. In severe cases, they may vomit or become completely disinterested in food.
Low Oxygen Levels (Hypoxia)
CHF can impair your dog’s oxygenation due to fluid accumulation in the lungs or weakened cardiac output. This results in fatigue, breathlessness, and systemic stress.
A dog who can’t get enough oxygen may have little energy for normal activities, let alone eating.
You might also notice bluish gums, increased respiratory rate, or a desire to rest constantly.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Dogs in heart failure may experience abdominal distension due to fluid buildup (ascites), which causes pressure on the stomach and intestines.
This can mimic the feeling of being full even when they haven’t eaten.
They may show signs of abdominal pain, resist lying on their side, or show general signs of gastrointestinal upset. The resulting discomfort can reduce their willingness to eat.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Congestive Heart Failure and Is Not Eating
Start by offering bland, easy-to-digest foods like boiled chicken and rice, or ask your vet if a low-sodium prescription diet is appropriate. Warming food slightly can make it more enticing.
Try hand-feeding or using your dog’s favorite treats to encourage interest.
Some dogs respond well to wet food mixed with broth or baby food (free from onion or garlic).
Monitor their breathing while eating—if they cough, pant heavily, or stop eating abruptly, stop the meal and call your vet.
If medication is causing nausea, ask your vet about anti-nausea support or adjusting the dose. Appetite stimulants may also be an option.
Hydration is critical—ensure clean water is always available, and watch for signs of dehydration such as sticky gums or sunken eyes.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours, or is eating significantly less than usual while managing heart disease, seek veterinary advice promptly.
Sudden changes in appetite, worsening breathing, excessive coughing, or signs of pain warrant immediate evaluation.
Other red flags include vomiting, diarrhea, collapse, pale or bluish gums, or signs of distress.
In some cases, hospitalization with oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, or medication adjustments may be needed to stabilize your dog.
Read more: Dog losing weight and not eating and lethargic (What it means)
Key Takeaway
A dog with congestive heart failure who stops eating is experiencing a complex interaction of fatigue, nausea, discomfort, and potentially medication side effects.
Act quickly, offer gentle support at home, and consult your vet for guidance.
With timely care, adjustments in treatment, and a compassionate approach, many dogs with CHF can regain comfort and continue enjoying their time with you.