When an old dog is not eating and shaking, it can be alarming for pet owners.
Shaking, tremors, or shivering combined with loss of appetite often indicates pain or systemic stress that should not be ignored.
We outline the common reasons why an old dog may not be eating and shaking, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Old Dog Not Eating and Shaking — Why It Happens
An old dog not eating and shaking is often a sign of underlying medical issues which includes low blood sugar, pain, or neurological disorders to organ disease, infections, and toxin exposure. Older dogs have less physiological reserve, so even mild conditions can cause noticeable shaking and appetite loss.
Prompt attention is crucial, as untreated problems can escalate quickly in older dogs.
Old Dog Not Eating and Shaking: Common Causes
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar can cause weakness, shaking, and loss of appetite in senior dogs.
Dogs may tremble, appear disoriented, or have seizures in severe cases. Older dogs with metabolic disorders, liver disease, or prolonged periods without food are particularly at risk.
Hypoglycemia is dangerous and requires prompt veterinary intervention to restore normal glucose levels and prevent complications.
Read more: Old Dog Not Eating and Throwing Up (Here’s Why)
Pain or Arthritis
Chronic pain from arthritis, injuries, or inflammation can trigger shaking and reluctance to eat.
Pain increases stress hormones, causing tremors or shivering. Difficulty reaching food or discomfort while standing can further reduce appetite.
Effective pain management through medication, joint supplements, or environmental adjustments can improve comfort, energy, and eating behavior.
Kidney or Liver Disease
Organ dysfunction in seniors can lead to toxin accumulation, causing nausea, lethargy, and shaking.
Dogs may refuse food due to nausea and tremble from systemic weakness or electrolyte imbalances. Other signs include vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urination.
Veterinary care is essential to manage organ disease, restore hydration, and prevent rapid deterioration.
Neurological Disorders
Neurological conditions such as vestibular disease, neuropathy, or seizures can cause tremors and loss of appetite in older dogs.
Symptoms may include unsteady gait, circling, or head tilting. These disorders interfere with normal feeding behavior and can be distressing to both dog and owner.
Diagnosis often involves bloodwork, imaging, or specialized neurological exams to determine the underlying cause.
Infections
Systemic infections can cause shivering, weakness, and appetite loss.
Fever or inflammation triggers muscle tremors, and older dogs may be less able to compensate for illness, resulting in noticeable shaking. Other signs may include lethargy, coughing, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Early detection and treatment with fluids, antibiotics, or supportive care are critical for seniors.
Toxin Exposure
Accidental ingestion of toxins, plants, chemicals, or medications can cause shaking and reduced appetite.
Signs often appear suddenly and may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or collapse. Older dogs are particularly vulnerable to the effects of toxins due to reduced organ function.
Immediate veterinary intervention is crucial to prevent serious complications or death.
Read more: Old Dog Not Eating and Has Diarrhea (Explained)
What to Do If Your Old Dog Is Not Eating and Shaking
Ensure your dog is safe and warm, as shivering may indicate weakness or stress.
Offer small amounts of water or ice cubes to prevent dehydration, and monitor for any additional symptoms. Avoid feeding until the cause of shaking is clearer, unless advised by a veterinarian.
Keep a log of symptoms, including frequency of shaking, appetite changes, and any vomiting or lethargy. This information can help your vet determine the cause more quickly.
Minimize stress and provide a quiet, comfortable environment while arranging veterinary care.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek immediate care if your dog:
Has persistent or severe shaking
Refuses all food and water
Shows weakness, collapse, or seizures
Exhibits vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in consciousness
Even mild tremors in an older dog accompanied by appetite loss should prompt evaluation. Quick action can prevent complications from hypoglycemia, organ failure, infections, or neurological disorders.
Read more: Old Dog Not Eating (Causes and what to do)
Key Takeaway
When an old dog is not eating and shaking, it signals that something is affecting their overall health. Causes can include hypoglycemia, organ disease, pain, neurological disorders, infections, or toxin exposure.
At home, provide a safe, comfortable space, encourage hydration, and track symptoms, but always seek veterinary evaluation.
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for maintaining comfort and preventing serious complications in senior dogs.