Something weird just happened, and I'm really worried. My dog, Max, has been on Atopica for his skin issues, and everything was fine until this morning. Out of nowhere, he started refusing his breakfast, and later, I noticed him acting super lethargic and not his usual bouncy self. He even started scratching a lot more, which I thought the meds were supposed to help with! I haven’t changed his diet or routine, and this seems to have come on all of a sudden. Could this be a side effect? I’m just not sure what to do or if I should stop the meds altogether. Has anyone else experienced anything like this? I’m just feeling so lost and anxious seeing him like this.
Thanks for reaching out. It can be really worrisome when our pets have unexpected reactions to medications like Atopica (Cyclosporine), which is often used to help manage allergies or skin conditions. Sometimes, dogs can experience side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, which might include vomiting or diarrhea, or even a decrease in appetite. Less common reactions could include lethargy or changes in behavior.
Firstly, ensure your dog is comfortable and has access to fresh water, especially if they're vomiting or have diarrhea. You might consider offering bland food such as boiled chicken and rice to help settle their stomach, but be sure to check if they’re willing to eat and drink normally.
Watch for signs that could indicate a more serious issue. If your dog continues to vomit, shows signs of dehydration, appears very lethargic, or if you notice any swelling or difficulty breathing, these could be a cause for more immediate concern.
It’s best to pause the medication temporarily until you've had a chance to discuss this with a vet to avoid further complications. I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet so we can tailor advice specific to your dog’s situation and determine the best course of action together.
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's
not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely.
For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our
content guidelines.