My dog Bella just had a Cytopoint injection, but now she seems lethargic and isn’t eating! Should I be freaking out? Is this dangerous? Do I need to call the vet right away, or is this normal? I’m so worried!

Hi there! I completely understand why you're worried about Bella. It's always unsettling when our pets aren't quite themselves. After a Cytopoint injection, it's not uncommon for some dogs to experience mild side effects. Lethargy and a reduced appetite can happen, but they're typically short-lived. Let’s break it down a bit:

• Symptoms to monitor: Mild lethargy and a decreased appetite can happen but should resolve in a day or so.
• When to worry: If Bella is extremely lethargic, vomiting, having diarrhea, or showing signs of an allergic reaction (like swelling around the face or difficulty breathing), it's time to reach out to your vet.
• Emergency vs. what's normal: If her symptoms are mild and she seems comfortable otherwise, it's generally okay to keep an eye on her for the next 24 hours. Severe symptoms or anything out of the ordinary means calling your vet.
• At-home care: Make sure Bella has access to plenty of fresh water, and try offering her a bland diet or some of her favorite treats to tempt her appetite. Give her a quiet place to rest.

If Bella doesn't start showing signs of improvement soon or if things get worse, definitely give your vet a call. It's always better to err on the side of caution.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.