10 Common Signs Your Maltese Is Dying & Tips

If you have a Maltese, it’s important to know the signs that indicate your furry friend might be nearing the end of their life.

While it’s never easy to think about, recognizing the symptoms of a dying Maltese can help you prepare emotionally and make their last days as comfortable as possible.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the common signs that your Maltese may be nearing the end of their life and how you can provide them with the best possible care.

Signs Your Maltese Is Dying

Here are some common signs your Maltese is dying:

1. Drastic weight loss

Drastic weight loss is a common sign that a Maltese dog is not doing well, and it may be a sign that they are approaching the end of their life.

Even if they are eating properly, a Maltese who is dying may undergo substantial weight loss.

The reason for this and potential treatments should be discussed with your veterinarian, as it is frequently a symptom of an underlying medical issue.

To support keeping your Maltese dog’s weight and energy levels stable, you might also want to think about giving them high-calorie diets or supplements.

2. Drastic loss of appetite

A drastic loss of appetite is among the most typical indicators that your Maltese may be dying.

Numerous underlying medical diseases, such as cancer, organ failure, or digestive problems, may be to blame for this.

It’s crucial to provide your Maltese with their favorite snacks and meals if they stop eating or drinking, and to make sure they always have access to fresh water.

To get them to eat, you might also want to try giving them short, regular meals throughout the day.

Consult your veterinarian if your Maltese continues to resist food and water to make sure they are not experiencing any underlying medical issues.

3. Breathing difficulties

Breathing problems are a grave indication that your Maltese may be approaching death.

They can exhibit indications of panting, wheezing, or fast breathing, or they might breathe shallowly or loudly.

Seek quick veterinarian care if you have any of these symptoms.

Breathing problems can be brought on by a number of underlying medical disorders, such as pneumonia, lung disease, or heart failure, and they necessitate rapid medical attention.

4. Incontinence

Your Maltese may develop incontinence and lose control of their bladder or bowels as they become older.

They may find this uncomfortable, therefore it’s crucial to offer absorbent pads or diapers and periodically remove them for restroom breaks.

To assist handle any accidents, you might also want to think about giving them a cozy bed or box lined with absorbent bedding.

5. Intense pain

When in pain, Maltese may moan, howl, or yell as they approach death.

They could also exhibit unease through pacing or restlessness.

Consult your pet’s veterinarian about available pain-management choices, which may include drugs or other therapies.

It’s critical to control your Maltese’s discomfort so that they are as at ease as possible in their dying days.

6. Withdrawal

Your Maltese may grow distant and uninterested in their environment as their life draws to a close.

They could avoid their relatives and spend more time by themselves.

Spend as much time as you can with them, showing them soft attention and consolation.

They could also benefit from having a calm, relaxing area to rest in that is free from any stressors or loud noises.

7. Lethargy

It may indicate a health problem if your Maltese seems uninterested in their typical activities and is acting drowsy.

Lethargy in Maltese dogs can have a variety of reasons, including anemia, heart disease, infections, and endocrine problems.

It’s crucial to take your Maltese to the doctor for a checkup if they are not acting like themselves and appear sickly or listless.

8. Vomiting

Vomiting is a typical sign of many illnesses and can be a sign of a dangerous medical condition.

It’s crucial to keep an eye on your Maltese’s water consumption if they constantly vomit to prevent dehydration.

GI issues, infections, organ failure, and cancer are a few potential reasons for vomiting in Maltese dogs.

It’s crucial to take your Maltese to the doctor for a checkup if they are constantly vomiting or seem to be in pain while doing so.

Learn more about common foods Maltese dogs should avoid.

9. Diarrhea

A significant medical condition may be indicated by diarrhea, which is a typical symptom of several disorders.

It’s crucial to keep an eye on your Maltese’s water consumption if their diarrhea lasts more than a day or two to prevent dehydration.

Changes in nutrition, parasites, infections, and inflammation are a few possible reasons for diarrhea in Maltese dogs.

It’s crucial to take your Maltese to the doctor for a checkup if they have severe diarrhea or seem to be in pain.

10. Loss of Balance

A Maltese’s lack of balance may indicate an issue with their neurological system or muscles.

This may include ailments like spinal cord injuries or vestibular illness, which affects the inner ear.

This could also be a sign that your Maltese dog is dying.

Take your Maltese to the doctor for a checkup if they are experiencing problems walking or standing up.

Learn more about Maltese dog life expectancy.

How to comfort a dying Maltese dog

It is important to provide comfort to a dying Maltese dog as it can help ease their pain and anxiety during their final days.

Here are some common ways to comfort a dying Maltese dog:

1. Provide a comfortable and quiet environment: Dying Maltese dogs are likely to be weak and may have difficulty moving around. Therefore, it is important to provide them with a quiet and comfortable environment, such as a soft cushion or bed they can relax on.
2. Give them appropriate nutrition: As Maltese dogs approach the end of their lives, it is important to pay attention to their diet. You can offer them soft, easy-to-eat meals, or choose a high-quality, veterinarian-recommended liquid diet.
3. Provide access to water: Dehydration is a common problem in dying dogs. Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water around the clock.
4. Use pain relief medication: Consult with a veterinarian to provide appropriate pain relief medication to ease your Maltese dog’s pain.
5. Provide emotional support: Comfort your Maltese dog with gentle touches like petting, cuddling, or hugging. This will help them feel loved and secure.
6. Use aromatherapy: Using essential oils like lavender and chamomile can help promote a calming effect and reduce anxiety in dying dogs.
7. Keep their living area clean: Keep the living area of your Maltese dog clean and hygienic to make them comfortable and prevent the development of infections.
8. Keep them comfortable: Maltese dogs may experience temperature regulation problems as they near the end of their lives. Keep your Maltese dog comfortable by ensuring they are neither too hot nor too cold.
9. Work with a veterinarian: Consult a veterinarian to monitor your Maltese dog’s condition and to ensure they are receiving all the necessary care, medication, and support.

When to seek veterinary care for a dying Maltese dog

If you have a dying Maltese dog, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Signs that your Maltese dog may be dying can include loss of appetite, lethargy, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in behavior.

Any of these symptoms should prompt a visit to the vet.

In addition, if your Maltese is exhibiting signs of pain, such as crying out or whimpering, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

In general, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek veterinary care for any concerning symptoms or changes in behavior.

The vet can provide guidance on end-of-life care and pain management options to ensure your Maltese is as comfortable as possible in their final days.

Learn more about the benefits of regular vet check-ups.

Causes of death in Maltese dogs

As with any breed of dog, Maltese dogs can be susceptible to a variety of health issues that can impact their lifespan.

Here are some common causes of death in Maltese dogs:

1. Trauma: As with any small dog breed, Maltese dogs are susceptible to injury from falls, accidents, or attacks by larger animals.
2. Cancer: Cancer is a leading cause of death in dogs , including Maltese dogs. Common types of cancer that affect dogs include lymphoma, osteosarcoma, and mast cell tumors.
3. Cardiovascular disease: Heart disease is a common health issue in Maltese dogs and can include problems such as mitral valve disease and congestive heart failure.
4. Liver shunts: Maltese dogs are prone to liver shunts, which are abnormal blood vessels that redirect blood away from the liver. This can cause a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream and can be fatal if left untreated.
5. Intestinal obstruction: Small dogs like the Maltese are prone to ingesting foreign objects that can get stuck in their digestive system, leading to an intestinal obstruction that can be fatal if not removed.
6. Kidney failure: Maltese dogs can be prone to chronic kidney disease, which can lead to kidney failure if left untreated.
7. Diabetes: Maltese dogs can be prone to developing diabetes, which can lead to a variety of health issues and can be fatal if not managed properly.
8. Pancreatitis: Maltese dogs are prone to pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
9. Respiratory problems: Maltese dogs are prone to respiratory issues such as tracheal collapse, which can cause difficulty breathing and can be fatal if left untreated.

Learn more about common causes of death in Maltese dogs.

How to cope with the loss of your Maltese dog

Losing a pet, especially one that has been a beloved member of your family, can be a difficult and painful experience.

Here are a few suggestions on how to cope with the loss of your Maltese dog:

1. Allow yourself to grieve: Losing a pet can be just as difficult as losing a human companion. It’s important to allow yourself to feel the sadness and to express your grief in a healthy way. Consider joining a support group or talking with others who have experienced a similar loss. Reading books on pet loss and grief can also be helpful.
2. Celebrate the life of your Maltese: Rather than focusing on your Maltese’s death, celebrate their life. Share happy memories with others, create a memorial or tribute, or consider making a donation to a pet-related charity in honor of your pet.
3. Seek professional help if needed: If you find that your grief is interfering with your ability to function normally, consider seeking professional help. A mental health professional can help you work through your feelings and develop coping strategies.
4. Consider getting a new pet: While no new pet can replace the one that you’ve lost, consider getting a new pet when you’re ready. Caring for a new pet can help ease the pain and fill the void left by your Maltese.
5. Take care of yourself: Losing a pet can be emotionally and physically draining. Take time to care for yourself, whether that means getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, or exercising regularly. Allow yourself time to heal and process your grief.

Conclusion

Losing a beloved pet can be a heartbreaking experience, and it can be difficult to recognize the signs that your Maltese is approaching the end of their life.

Though it’s a tough topic to consider, being informed and prepared can help you give your furry friend the best possible care during their final days.

Keep an eye out for physical symptoms such as lethargy, changes in appetite, and difficulty breathing.

And don’t forget to show your Maltese lots of love and affection, so they can spend their final moments surrounded by the warmth of your affection.