What to do if your newborn puppy doesn't want to eat?

When a newborn puppy refuses to eat, it can be a cause for concern for its owners. Proper nutrition is crucial for its growth and development, and any sign that a puppy isn't eating correctly should be taken seriously. In this blog, we'll address the possible reasons why your puppy might not be eating and how to fix it.

1. Why don't newborn puppies want to eat?

There are several reasons why a newborn puppy may refuse food, and it's important to identify them correctly in order to take the appropriate action.

a) Problems with breastfeeding

The most common reason a puppy won't eat is a lack of adequate access to its mother's milk. If the mother isn't producing enough milk or if the puppy is having difficulty nursing, it may refuse to eat. In some cases, the mother may reject the puppy for various reasons, which can lead to the puppy not receiving the necessary nutrients.

b) Physical malformations

Some puppies may be born with malformations that make it difficult for them to suckle or access their mother's milk. Conditions such as a cleft palate or breathing difficulties can cause a puppy to refuse food.

c) Diseases or infections

A newborn puppy may also refuse to eat if it is sick or has an infection. Bacterial or viral infections can make a puppy feel weak, which can lead to a lack of appetite.

d) Stress or trauma

The environment or birth trauma can affect a puppy's behavior. If the puppy is stressed or has experienced physical trauma, it may not feel well enough to eat.

e) Inadequate feeding or poor management

If you are trying to bottle-feed your puppy and you are not using the right formula or you are not bottle-feeding correctly, the puppy may refuse the food.

2. How can you tell if your puppies are well fed?

It's important to watch for signs that your puppy is getting the right amount of food:

• Weight gain: A newborn puppy should gain weight daily. If it's not gaining weight, it's a clear sign that it's not eating enough.

• Energy level: Well-fed puppies tend to be active, although they spend most of their time sleeping.

• Behavior: A puppy that is not eating and appears lethargic or whiny may be having difficulty feeding properly.

3. How to help your puppies eat if they don't do it on their own?

If your newborn puppy doesn't want to eat, there are some solutions you can try.

a) Offer breast milk appropriately

If the mother is available, make sure the puppy can nurse properly. You can help him find the nipple or, if necessary, assist with a bottle of the appropriate formula. If the mother is not available, use a special puppy formula.

b) Use of puppy formula

If the puppy cannot access its mother's milk, it's important to feed it a formula specifically designed for puppies. Avoid cow's milk, as it's not suitable for them. The special puppy formula is designed to meet all of their nutritional needs.

c) To provide heat

Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature properly. If your puppy is cold, it may refuse to eat. Make sure to keep it warm and comfortable, using a heating pad or a hot water bottle wrapped in a cloth.

d) Veterinary examination

If your puppy still refuses to eat after trying these solutions, it's essential to take him to the vet for a checkup. A professional will be able to identify any potential health problems, such as infections or malformations, that might be preventing him from eating.

4. The role of puppy supplements: How can Maikai help?

While newborn puppies should be fed primarily with breast milk or special puppy formula, in some situations, supplements can be helpful to ensure your pet is receiving all the necessary nutrients.

Maikai 's natural products can be a valuable supplement when your puppy starts eating solid food or needs additional nutritional support.

Immune Digestive:

A supplement like Immune Digestive can help improve digestion and the immune system of puppies as they begin to adjust to new foods. Formulated with natural ingredients, this supplement can be helpful during the transition period when puppies move from milk to solid food.

5. Additional tips to ensure your puppy is properly fed

• Feeding frequency: Newborn babies should be fed frequently (every 2-3 hours for the first few weeks). As they grow, the frequency can be reduced.

• Observe their behavior: If the baby continues to refuse food, it could be a sign that something is not working correctly, such as the formula or the type of bottle used.

• Avoid sudden changes: If you have to change the formula or type of food, do it gradually to avoid digestive discomfort.

6. Conclusion: Take care of your puppy's diet from the beginning

Nutrition is one of the most important pillars of your puppy's health in its first days and weeks of life. If your newborn puppy isn't eating, it's important to quickly identify the underlying causes and act accordingly. If home remedies don't work, don't hesitate to consult a veterinarian.