When your dog has red eyes, refuses food, and seems unusually tired, it’s natural to feel deeply worried. These symptoms together can point to a number of underlying issues—some minor, others serious.
We outline the common causes of dog has red eyes and not eating and lethargic, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Has Red Eyes and Not Eating and Lethargic — Why It Happens
Red eyes paired with a lack of appetite and sluggish behavior usually point to a systemic issue. Infections (like conjunctivitis or kennel cough), immune conditions, fever, eye trauma, or even toxin ingestion can all lead to this concerning combination of signs.
Your dog might be fighting off an illness, experiencing pain, or simply not feeling well due to digestive upset. Some causes are mild and resolve with rest, while others require urgent treatment to prevent serious health outcomes.
Common Causes of Dog Has Red Eyes and Not Eating and Lethargic
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is a common cause of red, inflamed eyes in dogs. If the condition is painful or due to infection, your dog may also lose interest in food and appear withdrawn.
You might notice excessive blinking, discharge, or pawing at the eyes. Dogs often become lethargic when their eyes are uncomfortable or if the conjunctivitis is part of a broader viral or bacterial illness.
Prompt treatment is essential to ease discomfort and prevent complications.
Canine Influenza or Upper Respiratory Infections
Just like people, dogs can catch contagious respiratory infections. These often lead to red or glassy eyes, decreased appetite, and listlessness.
Other signs may include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and mild fever.
Even mild cases can cause your dog to feel unwell enough to avoid food. Severe cases require medication and isolation to prevent spread.
Eye Trauma or Foreign Object
A scratch, debris, or chemical irritation can inflame the eye and lead to noticeable redness.
Pain from the injury can make a dog refuse food and prefer to rest. If there’s excessive tearing, squinting, or swelling, it’s a strong indicator of trauma.
In these situations, lethargy may be a stress response to ongoing pain or discomfort.
Read more: Dog Eye Red and Not Eating (What it means)
Systemic Illness or Fever
Fever caused by internal infections or inflammation can lead to lethargy, appetite loss, and visible red or bloodshot eyes.
This may stem from anything from a tick-borne disease to pancreatitis or even immune-related conditions. Dogs with a fever are often warm to the touch and prefer quiet rest.
Veterinary evaluation is crucial to identify the underlying trigger.
Toxin Exposure
Certain toxins or plants (like lilies, sago palm, or human medications) can trigger red eyes, vomiting, drooling, fatigue, and appetite changes.
Some toxins irritate the eyes directly, while others affect internal organs and lead to visible eye inflammation due to overall distress.
If toxin ingestion is suspected, this is a medical emergency.
Canine Uveitis or Glaucoma
These are serious eye conditions that can cause redness, pain, and even blindness.
If your dog is also lethargic and avoiding food, it may be a sign the condition has progressed or is causing significant discomfort.
Glaucoma in particular is an emergency—pressure in the eye builds rapidly and can cause irreversible damage within hours.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Red Eyes and Not Eating and Lethargic
Start by making your dog comfortable in a quiet, cool space. Offer fresh water and bland food like plain boiled chicken and rice—but don’t force them to eat.
Gently examine their eyes without touching them. Look for discharge, squinting, or signs of trauma.
Avoid using human eye drops or medications unless specifically instructed by your vet.
Keep their environment calm and minimize physical exertion. Rest and hydration are crucial, especially if a fever is present.
If symptoms are mild and your dog improves within 12–24 hours, home care may be enough. But if symptoms persist or worsen, seek veterinary attention.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your veterinarian promptly if:
Your dog’s eye is bulging, cloudy, or very swollen
They refuse food or water for over 24 hours
They’re extremely lethargic or unable to stand
You notice fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
There’s any suspicion of poisoning or eye injury
Their symptoms worsen instead of improving
Red eyes and appetite loss combined with lethargy often point to something more serious than eye irritation alone. Don’t wait too long to intervene.
Read more: Dog Conjunctivitis and Not Eating (Causes and how to help)
Key Takeaway
If your dog has red eyes, is not eating, and seems lethargic, pay close attention—it may signal pain, infection, or illness. Some causes are minor, but others demand quick action to protect your dog’s comfort and health.
Offer quiet rest, hydration, and comfort care at home, but contact your vet if symptoms persist, intensify, or include signs like vomiting or injury. Being proactive can make all the difference in your dog’s recovery.