Let’s be real. When your dog gets diagnosed with tick fever, your brain goes into full-on worry mode.
You’re googling, asking around, staring at your dog wondering why they won’t eat, and feeling pretty helpless. Been there, done that, probably cried a bit too.
Tick fever isn’t a small thing. Whether it’s ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, or anaplasmosis, it knocks the wind right out of your dog. They’re weak, their appetite’s gone, and they look at food like it’s a bad joke.
So, what do you actually feed a dog who’s fighting off tick fever?
First Off: Forget the Giant Bowl of Kibble
You know how we feel when we’re sick? No one wants a full three-course meal when they can barely lift their head. Same goes for dogs.
Instead of one big meal, try small portions throughout the day. Even if it’s just a spoonful every few hours, that’s easier on their tummy and helps avoid nausea. Plus, it keeps energy trickling in without overloading their system.
Hydration Is the Real MVP
A sick dog refusing food is hard enough. But a dog that won’t drink? That’s a red flag.
Tick fever can cause fevers (surprise), so keeping your dog hydrated is non-negotiable. If water isn’t cutting it, add low-sodium chicken broth or unseasoned bone broth. You’d be surprised how much more interested they get when water smells like stew.
You can even mix broth with their food to make it soft and soupy. Not the prettiest meal, but hey, if it gets the job done, who cares?
Let’s Talk Protein
Your dog’s body is working overtime fighting off this infection. Muscles break down faster, and they need help rebuilding.
Protein helps with that repair. Think boiled chicken, scrambled eggs (no oil or seasoning), or lean minced beef. Just keep it super plain. No pepper, no onions, no drama. Their gut is too sensitive right now.
If your dog’s stool is okay and they’re not throwing up, add a little white rice or plain pasta. Easy carbs for energy, and gentle on the tummy.
Boosting Immunity Without Fancy Supplements
No need to get into complicated powders and potions. Focus on whole, nutritious ingredients if they’ll eat them.
A spoon of plain pumpkin or cooked sweet potato (just a bit) can add vitamins and help digestion. Some dogs love soft veggies like carrots or green beans, just make sure they’re well-cooked and unsalted.
If your vet approves, you can also use a small amount of plain Greek yogurt for probiotics. Only a spoon though. You don’t want to overwhelm their system.
Foods to Skip While Your Dog Is Down
As tempting as it is to spoil them, skip fatty foods like bacon, spicy treats, or anything greasy. That’s asking for an upset stomach or worse.
Also avoid foods super high in fiber. Sounds healthy, but too much roughage can be tough on a recovering dog’s gut. So no bran muffins or crunchy raw veg.
And don’t even think about giving them human junk food. No fries, no bread, no milkshakes. This is about healing, not comfort eating.
Bringing Back Their Regular Food Slowly
Once your dog shows signs of getting better, wagging tail, interest in toys, coming over at the sound of a treat bag, you can ease them back into their normal diet.
Do it gradually. Mix their usual kibble or wet food with whatever plain meal you’ve been feeding. Increase the ratio every day or two, as long as their stomach holds up.
Watch for any signs of vomiting, loose stool, or loss of appetite again. If that happens, slow down and go back to basics for a bit.
Don’t Skip Meds or Vet Advice
Yes, food helps, but tick fever isn’t something you manage with chicken and rice alone. Always give the full course of prescribed meds, even if your dog starts acting better.
The diet is just there to support them through the rough patch, it doesn’t replace treatment. Keep in close touch with your vet. And if your dog suddenly worsens or shows signs like pale gums, breathing issues, or collapse, go straight to the clinic.
Take Care of Yourself Too
Caring for a sick dog is emotionally draining. You’re probably worried sick, tired of cleaning up uneaten food, and Googling every tiny change in behavior.
You’re doing your best. Sometimes just getting your dog to eat half a boiled egg feels like winning the lottery.
Give yourself grace, and remember recovery can be slow and weird. One day they might eat three times, the next they ignore everything. As long as there’s progress over time, you’re on the right track.
Feeding a dog with tick fever isn’t about perfection. It’s about patience, soft food, lots of water, and gentle encouragement. Some days are frustrating. Some are quiet wins. But with love, vet care, and the right food choices, most dogs bounce back.
How do you keep your dog eating when they’re feeling under the weather?