When your dog is urinating more than usual and refusing food, it’s a combination that shouldn’t be ignored. These symptoms often point to underlying health issues that range from urinary tract problems to organ dysfunction.
We outline the common causes of dog peeing and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Peeing and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Increased urination combined with a loss of appetite is often a sign that your dog’s body is struggling to maintain balance. Conditions such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, kidney disease, or hormonal disorders can lead to these symptoms. Sometimes, stress or pain can also trigger changes in both eating and urination habits. The presence of both signs often suggests that a systemic issue may be at play.
Common Causes of Dog Peeing and Not Eating
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
UTIs are a common reason dogs may urinate frequently or in inappropriate places. The discomfort or pain associated with urination can also lead to a reduced appetite.
Dogs may squat often, lick their genitals, or strain to urinate. You might notice cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
Left untreated, a UTI can progress to a kidney infection or become chronic, making prompt attention important.
Read more: Dog Peeing a Lot and Not Eating (Here’s why)
Kidney Disease
Kidney problems can cause your dog to drink and pee more while also feeling nauseated and losing their appetite.
Other signs include lethargy, bad breath, vomiting, and pale gums. In chronic kidney disease, the body can’t properly filter waste, making your dog feel unwell overall.
Loss of appetite is especially concerning in these cases, as it can lead to rapid weight loss and worsening kidney function.
Diabetes
Dogs with diabetes often urinate excessively and show increased thirst. However, when insulin regulation is poor, they may also stop eating.
Skipping meals can be dangerous for diabetic dogs and lead to a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.
If your dog is peeing a lot and showing no interest in food, especially if they’re also lethargic or vomiting, it warrants immediate vet care.
Hormonal Disorders (e.g., Cushing’s Disease)
Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism) causes dogs to pee more, drink more, and sometimes lose their appetite due to gastrointestinal upset or medication side effects.
The imbalance in hormones affects metabolism and can impact appetite. Dogs may also develop a potbelly, thinning fur, or appear restless.
If your senior dog has these symptoms, this condition should be considered.
Pain or Stress
If your dog is experiencing pain from another condition (like arthritis or injury), it might lead to loss of appetite and a change in bathroom habits.
Stress, such as a new environment or changes in routine, can also trigger both urination issues and appetite suppression.
A dog peeing frequently due to anxiety might also pace, pant, or hide.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Peeing and Not Eating
Try to monitor how much your dog is drinking and how often they are urinating.
Check the color and smell of the urine. If it’s dark, cloudy, or smells strong, take note.
Offer bland, easy-to-digest food like boiled chicken and rice. If they refuse this, it’s a red flag.
Keep your dog calm and minimize stressors like loud noises or unfamiliar visitors.
Avoid giving treats or new foods in an attempt to stimulate appetite, as this can upset their stomach further.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your vet promptly if:
Your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours
They are urinating excessively or having accidents indoors
There’s blood in the urine
They are vomiting or seem lethargic
Their water intake has increased noticeably
These signs may point to serious conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or infections that require medical intervention.
Read more: Dog Only Drinking Water and Not Eating (Is this an emergency?)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is peeing more and refusing food, don’t brush it off. These symptoms often signal that something deeper is going on—from urinary infections to kidney disease or even diabetes.
Act early by observing their behavior and talking to your vet. With the right care, many of these conditions can be managed successfully, and your pup can feel better soon.