Why Is My Dog Not Eating? 10 Possible Reasons
- VetSağlıkUzmanı

- Nov 16
- 16 min read
Understanding Loss of Appetite in Dogs
Loss of appetite (also known as anorexia) in dogs is one of the most common symptoms seen by veterinarians and can range from mild and temporary to life-threatening, depending on the cause. Dogs may refuse food for a few hours or days due to environmental changes or minor stress, but persistent loss of appetite usually signals an underlying medical or behavioral issue.
Healthy dogs typically have a strong appetite, and sudden refusal to eat is a red flag. While occasional disinterest in a meal is normal, a lack of appetite lasting more than 24–48 hours should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Appetite changes often accompany other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss, which help narrow down the cause.
There are two primary types of appetite loss:
Partial anorexia: The dog eats less than usual but not completely stops.
Complete anorexia: The dog refuses all food, including favorite treats.
Appetite loss affects hydration, energy levels, and digestion, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies, hypoglycemia, and dehydration, especially in puppies and senior dogs. Monitoring both eating behavior and water intake is crucial.
Understanding the underlying cause—medical, emotional, or environmental—is the first step to restoring normal appetite and preventing complications.

Common Medical Causes of Appetite Loss in Dogs
When a dog suddenly stops eating, medical conditions should always be considered first. Illness-related anorexia can stem from infections, organ dysfunction, pain, or metabolic disease. Below is a summary of common medical reasons dogs lose their appetite:
Condition | Description | Severity Level |
Gastrointestinal Disorders | Inflammation, infection, or obstruction in the stomach or intestines cause nausea, vomiting, and discomfort. | High |
Dental or Oral Pain | Broken teeth, gingivitis, or mouth ulcers make chewing painful, reducing food intake. | Medium |
Kidney or Liver Disease | Toxin buildup and nausea from organ dysfunction suppress appetite and cause vomiting. | High |
Pancreatitis | Inflammation of the pancreas leads to severe abdominal pain, lethargy, and complete food refusal. | High |
Infections (Bacterial/Viral/Parasitic) | Fever, inflammation, or immune responses reduce appetite during systemic illness. | Medium to High |
Pain or Injury | Orthopedic pain, trauma, or post-surgical discomfort can decrease appetite temporarily. | Medium |
Endocrine Disorders (Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Addison’s) | Hormonal imbalance alters metabolism, energy, and hunger regulation. | Medium to High |
Cancer | Tumors or chemotherapy-related side effects often cause anorexia and weight loss. | High |
Toxin Ingestion | Accidental ingestion of toxic foods (chocolate, onions, xylitol) or chemicals triggers nausea and inappetence. | High (Emergency) |
Fever or Inflammation | Elevated body temperature naturally suppresses appetite as part of the immune response. | Medium |
Medical causes must always be ruled out before assuming behavioral or environmental reasons. Persistent loss of appetite warrants veterinary evaluation, including blood work, physical examination, and imaging to identify the underlying problem.

Behavioral and Environmental Causes of Poor Appetite
When medical conditions are ruled out, a dog’s loss of appetite is often linked to behavioral or environmental factors. Dogs are creatures of routine and can be highly sensitive to changes in their surroundings, schedule, or emotional state.
1. Change in Environment or Routine
Moving to a new home, traveling, or even rearranging furniture can temporarily disrupt your dog’s sense of security. Dogs may refuse food for 1–2 days while adjusting to new surroundings.
2. Stress and Anxiety
Noise (fireworks, thunderstorms), visitors, or separation from owners can cause stress-induced anorexia. Dogs under stress often avoid food, pace, or hide instead of eating.
3. Diet Changes
Switching brands or flavors abruptly can lead to food rejection. Dogs often need a gradual transition over 5–7 days when introducing new food. Sudden change can also upset digestion.
4. Temperature and Season
Hot weather reduces appetite as dogs conserve energy and drink more water. Appetite typically returns to normal as temperatures cool.
5. Boredom or Lack of Exercise
Dogs who are under-stimulated or sedentary may eat less due to decreased metabolic demand. Regular walks and play sessions can naturally stimulate appetite.
6. Competition or Feeding Environment
In multi-pet households, dominant animals may intimidate others at mealtime. Separate feeding areas create a relaxed environment, encouraging normal eating.
Behavioral or environmental appetite loss is usually temporary and resolves once the stressor is removed or routine is restored. However, prolonged refusal to eat may still mask an underlying medical condition and requires veterinary evaluation.
How Stress and Anxiety Affect a Dog’s Eating Habits
Stress and anxiety are powerful suppressors of appetite in dogs, influencing both physical and emotional well-being. When anxious, the body releases cortisol and adrenaline, hormones that divert energy from digestion to survival responses (“fight or flight”).
Common Stress Triggers:
Separation anxiety – dogs left alone for long periods may skip meals.
New family members – introduction of another pet, baby, or guest.
Loud noises – thunderstorms, fireworks, or traffic.
Changes in schedule – feeding, walking, or sleeping times altered suddenly.
Veterinary visits or boarding – unfamiliar settings can cause emotional shutdowns.
Physical Effects of Stress on Appetite:
Slower gastric emptying and acid buildup, leading to nausea.
Muscle tension in the neck or jaw, making chewing uncomfortable.
Reduced salivation, causing dry mouth and difficulty swallowing.
How to Reduce Stress-Related Anorexia:
Maintain Routine: Feed and walk at consistent times each day.
Create a Calm Environment: Reduce loud noises and offer a quiet eating space.
Encourage Eating with Positive Reinforcement: Sit near your dog, offer gentle praise, and hand-feed small portions if needed.
Increase Physical Activity: Regular exercise releases endorphins and reduces anxiety-driven appetite loss.
Consider Pheromone Diffusers or Calming Aids: Products like Adaptil can help ease mild anxiety.
Chronic stress should not be ignored; if your dog consistently avoids food or loses weight, professional evaluation is essential to rule out medical or behavioral disorders.
Dental or Oral Problems That Make Dogs Refuse Food
Dental or oral pain is one of the most underestimated causes of appetite loss in dogs. When chewing becomes painful, dogs may approach their food, sniff it, and walk away — a behavior often mistaken for pickiness. However, oral discomfort is frequently linked to underlying disease.
Common Dental and Oral Causes of Appetite Loss:
Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease: Inflammation and infection of the gums make chewing extremely painful. Dogs may drool, bleed from the mouth, or drop food while eating.
Tooth Fractures: Chewing on hard bones or toys can expose the tooth pulp, causing sharp pain and sensitivity.
Tooth Root Abscesses: Localized infections at the tooth root lead to swelling, facial asymmetry, and reluctance to eat.
Stomatitis (Mouth Inflammation): Severe inflammation or ulcers on the gums, tongue, or cheeks can make eating intolerable.
Foreign Objects: Sticks, hair, or threads lodged between teeth or under the tongue cause irritation and pain.
Oral Tumors: Benign or malignant growths in the mouth interfere with normal chewing and swallowing.
Warning Signs of Dental Pain:
Reluctance to chew hard food
Dropping kibble from the mouth
Bad breath and excessive drooling
Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face on the floor
Visible swelling around the jaw or muzzle
A full oral examination under anesthesia is often necessary to identify the cause. Professional dental cleaning, extractions, or antibiotic therapy can restore comfort and appetite. Maintaining regular brushing and annual dental checkups helps prevent recurrence.
Changes in Diet or Feeding Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in their diet or feeding schedule can cause temporary food refusal. Appetite suppression after a dietary change is common and usually resolves once the dog adjusts to the new food.
1. Abrupt Food Change
Switching brands or flavors overnight can upset a dog’s digestive balance, causing nausea or rejection of the unfamiliar scent or taste. Gradually mix the new food with the old diet over 7 days, increasing the new food portion by 25% each day.
2. Overfeeding or Too Many Treats
Dogs who receive frequent treats or table scraps may lose interest in regular meals. Treats should make up no more than 10% of total daily calories. Excessive snacks can also cause stomach discomfort and nutrient imbalance.
3. Change in Feeding Schedule or Environment
Irregular feeding times, noisy surroundings, or competing pets can disrupt eating habits. Create a calm, consistent routine by feeding your dog at the same time and in a quiet area each day.
4. Food Temperature and Texture
Cold food can dull aroma and taste. Warming food slightly (without overheating) or adding low-sodium broth enhances smell and encourages eating. Senior dogs or those with dental pain may prefer soft or moistened food.
5. Food Spoilage
Check expiration dates, storage conditions, and freshness. Dogs are sensitive to rancid fats or stale kibble, which may cause nausea or refusal.
A consistent feeding routine — combined with high-quality, palatable food — helps maintain appetite stability and prevents unnecessary digestive upset.
The Role of Digestive Disorders and Stomach Upset
Digestive problems are one of the most frequent medical causes of sudden appetite loss in dogs. When the gastrointestinal (GI) system is irritated or inflamed, dogs often experience nausea, discomfort, and bloating — leading to food refusal.
Common Digestive Causes of Appetite Loss:
Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining due to spoiled food, toxins, or infection. Causes vomiting, drooling, and refusal to eat.
Gastroenteritis: Combined inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by dietary indiscretion (“garbage gut”) or bacterial infection.
Intestinal Parasites: Worms such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms can damage the intestinal wall, steal nutrients, and suppress appetite.
Food Intolerance or Allergies: Certain ingredients (chicken, beef, wheat, soy) can cause nausea, gas, and stomach cramps.
Bloating (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A life-threatening condition in large breeds where the stomach twists and fills with gas. Dogs refuse food, pant, and show a swollen abdomen — emergency treatment required.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation of the intestinal lining causes vomiting, weight loss, and chronic inappetence.
How to Recognize Digestive-Related Anorexia:
Repeated vomiting or gagging after eating
Diarrhea or soft stool with mucus or blood
Abdominal swelling or tenderness
Excessive licking of lips or swallowing (signs of nausea)
Eating grass or refusing favorite treats
Veterinary diagnosis often involves fecal testing, blood analysis, ultrasound, or endoscopy. Depending on the cause, treatment may include dietary modification, anti-nausea medication, probiotics, or deworming.
Feeding bland, easily digestible foods (such as boiled chicken and rice) during recovery helps restore appetite while protecting the stomach.
Medication Side Effects and Post-Vaccination Appetite Loss
Some dogs may lose their appetite temporarily due to medications, anesthesia, or vaccinations. These effects are generally short-lived but should be monitored closely.
1. Medications That Commonly Affect Appetite
Antibiotics (e.g., Doxycycline, Amoxicillin): Can cause nausea or alter gut flora, leading to decreased hunger.
Pain Relievers and NSAIDs: May irritate the stomach lining, causing discomfort after meals.
Steroids (e.g., Prednisone): Sometimes increase appetite, but sudden withdrawal can cause appetite suppression.
Chemotherapy Drugs: Often lead to nausea, vomiting, and long-term inappetence.
To minimize side effects, give medication with food when approved by your vet, or use anti-nausea support (e.g., Cerenia, probiotics) if prescribed.
2. Appetite Loss After Vaccination
Mild lethargy and reduced appetite are common for 24–48 hours after routine vaccinations, such as rabies or distemper. This response is part of the immune system’s reaction to the vaccine.
Monitor your dog’s condition:
Offer soft, palatable meals or hand-feed small portions.
Ensure access to clean water at all times.
Contact your vet if appetite loss lasts longer than 48 hours or if vomiting, swelling, or high fever occurs.
3. Anesthesia and Surgical Recovery
After dental or surgical procedures, anesthesia can suppress appetite for up to 24 hours. Offer light, easily digestible food once your dog is alert and hydrated. Appetite typically returns as anesthesia fully wears off.
In most cases, medication- or vaccine-related appetite loss is temporary and resolves without treatment. However, persistent inappetence may indicate an allergic or gastrointestinal reaction that requires medical evaluation.
When to Worry: Warning Signs That Require a Veterinarian
Not every skipped meal is cause for alarm, but certain symptoms accompanying appetite loss indicate an underlying medical emergency. Recognizing these warning signs early can save a dog’s life and prevent complications from dehydration or systemic illness.
Urgent Warning Signs:
Appetite loss lasting more than 48 hours
Vomiting or diarrhea that persists for more than 24 hours
Lethargy or weakness – unwillingness to move, walk, or play
Rapid weight loss or visible muscle wasting
Labored or irregular breathing
Pale, yellow, or blue gums (may signal anemia or oxygen deprivation)
Abdominal swelling, bloating, or pain when touched
Drooling excessively or pawing at the mouth – possible oral pain or poisoning
High fever (above 39.5°C / 103°F) or shivering
Vomiting blood or passing black stool (indicating internal bleeding)
If any of these signs occur, contact a veterinarian immediately. In emergencies like bloat, poisoning, or heatstroke, minutes matter. For mild cases without other symptoms, schedule a checkup within 24–48 hours to rule out hidden health issues.
Early veterinary intervention allows proper testing (bloodwork, X-rays, ultrasound) and targeted treatment — the fastest route to restoring appetite and preventing long-term harm.
How to Encourage Your Dog to Eat Again (Step-by-Step Guide)
When your dog refuses food but no serious illness is found, gentle encouragement and small adjustments can often restore appetite. Here’s a veterinary-approved step-by-step approach to help your dog eat again safely:
Step 1: Make the Food More Appealing
Warm the food slightly (never hot) to enhance aroma and taste.
Add low-sodium chicken broth or a spoonful of plain boiled chicken to increase palatability.
Offer food by hand or from your palm to build trust and stimulation.
Step 2: Maintain Routine and Calm
Feed your dog in a quiet, comfortable area away from distractions. Consistency in feeding time reduces stress and triggers natural hunger rhythms.
Step 3: Try Small, Frequent Meals
Offer smaller portions multiple times a day instead of one or two large meals. This is easier on the stomach and prevents nausea.
Step 4: Check Food Freshness
Ensure kibble or canned food hasn’t expired or gone stale. Store opened food properly and wash bowls daily to prevent bacterial contamination.
Step 5: Hydration Comes First
Encourage water intake. Mild dehydration suppresses appetite. You can mix a bit of wet food with water or use ice cubes flavored with broth.
Step 6: Gentle Exercise
Take short walks before mealtime. Physical activity improves digestion and naturally stimulates hunger.
Step 7: Use Appetite Stimulants (If Prescribed)
Veterinarians may prescribe safe appetite stimulants such as mirtazapine or capromorelin if natural methods fail. Never use human medications without guidance.
Step 8: Positive Reinforcement
Reward your dog for eating with calm praise and affection — not pressure. Avoid frustration, as negative emotion can increase resistance.
Most mild appetite loss improves within 24–72 hours once comfort and hydration are restored. However, if your dog still refuses food after these measures or exhibits other symptoms, a veterinary visit is mandatory to rule out deeper issues.
Safe Home Remedies for Mild Appetite Loss
When appetite loss is mild and your dog shows no other serious symptoms, you can safely try a few home-based remedies to stimulate eating. These methods are intended for short-term use and should never replace veterinary treatment for underlying diseases.
1. Offer Bland, Easily Digestible Food
Prepare a simple diet such as boiled chicken and white rice, plain turkey, or boiled eggs. These foods are gentle on the stomach and can encourage eating after digestive upset. Serve small portions and gradually reintroduce regular food over several days.
2. Warm the Food
Warming food enhances its aroma, making it more appealing. Dogs are scent-driven eaters, and a stronger smell can stimulate appetite. Warm food slightly to body temperature but avoid overheating or using a microwave for long periods.
3. Add Broth or Wet Mixers
Add low-sodium chicken or beef broth to dry food or mix kibble with a small amount of wet dog food. The extra moisture not only improves taste but also supports hydration.
4. Hand-Feeding
If your dog refuses food from the bowl, try offering it by hand or spoon. This method can reduce anxiety and increase comfort, especially in dogs experiencing emotional stress.
5. Encourage Light Exercise
A short walk before mealtime stimulates digestion and helps restore natural hunger cues. Avoid strenuous activity if your dog seems weak or ill.
6. Maintain a Calm Environment
Feed your dog in a quiet area away from noise and distractions. Stress-free settings can encourage eating, particularly in sensitive or anxious dogs.
7. Use Natural Appetite Boosters
Small additions like plain pumpkin purée or a drizzle of salmon oil can make food more enticing while providing extra nutrients. Always introduce new ingredients gradually to avoid stomach upset.
If appetite does not return within 24–48 hours, or your dog begins showing other signs of illness, seek veterinary attention immediately. Home care is effective for minor cases but cannot resolve underlying disease.
Preventive Tips to Maintain Healthy Eating Habits
Consistent routines and balanced care are key to maintaining a healthy appetite in dogs. Preventive strategies not only protect against future eating problems but also ensure optimal digestion and energy.
1. Maintain a Consistent Feeding Schedule
Feed your dog at the same times each day to establish predictable hunger cycles. Avoid leaving food out for long periods, as this reduces interest in eating.
2. Provide a Balanced Diet
Choose a high-quality, veterinarian-approved diet appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and activity level. Rotating between wet and dry options occasionally can add variety and prevent boredom.
3. Ensure Proper Hydration
Always keep fresh water available. Dehydration can cause lethargy and suppress appetite, especially in hot weather or after exercise.
4. Keep the Feeding Area Clean and Comfortable
Wash bowls daily, and choose stainless steel or ceramic instead of plastic, which can harbor bacteria. Provide a quiet feeding space away from loud noises and other pets.
5. Schedule Regular Veterinary Checkups
Routine exams help detect early signs of disease that may affect appetite. Annual dental cleanings and parasite control are also essential to prevent oral pain and gastrointestinal discomfort.
6. Manage Stress and Anxiety
Create a stable environment with regular exercise, play, and social interaction. Dogs thrive on consistency; minimizing stress helps maintain normal eating behavior.
7. Avoid Overfeeding or Excessive Treats
Overfeeding leads to obesity and digestive issues, while too many treats spoil regular meals. Keep treats to less than 10% of daily caloric intake.
8. Monitor Changes in Appetite
Track your dog’s eating patterns and report any sudden changes to your veterinarian. Early detection prevents serious complications from developing unnoticed.
Healthy eating habits stem from balanced nutrition, routine care, and emotional well-being. A consistent lifestyle and proactive monitoring will keep your dog’s appetite strong and stable for years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - dog not eating
Why is my dog not eating?A dog may stop eating due to various reasons such as illness, stress, changes in diet, dental pain, or environmental disruptions. Short-term inappetence (less than 24 hours) can be harmless, but persistent refusal to eat often signals an underlying health issue that needs veterinary attention.
Can stress cause my dog not to eat?Yes. Emotional stress, such as separation anxiety, loud noises, or changes in routine, can suppress appetite. Stress hormones like cortisol affect digestion and make food less appealing. Providing a calm, familiar environment and maintaining consistent feeding times often restores normal eating.
How long can a dog go without eating?Most healthy adult dogs can survive 3–5 days without food but may begin experiencing weakness, dehydration, and metabolic imbalance after just 24–48 hours. Puppies, seniors, and sick dogs deteriorate faster, so if your dog hasn’t eaten for two days, a vet visit is crucial.
What medical problems can cause a dog to lose appetite?Serious conditions such as gastrointestinal disease, pancreatitis, kidney or liver failure, infection, diabetes, or cancer can cause appetite loss. A veterinarian can diagnose these through blood tests, imaging, or physical examination.
Can dental problems make a dog stop eating?Yes. Oral pain from gingivitis, broken teeth, abscesses, or oral tumors often leads to food refusal. Dogs may approach the bowl but not eat, chew on one side, or drool excessively. Professional dental evaluation is needed to relieve discomfort and restore normal eating.
Is it normal for my dog to skip a meal?Occasionally skipping a meal is normal, especially in hot weather or after overeating treats. However, skipping multiple meals or showing additional symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or weight loss requires a veterinary check.
Why did my dog stop eating after changing food?Dogs may reject new food if introduced too suddenly. Gradually mix the new food with the old over 7 days, increasing the proportion daily. Abrupt changes can also upset the stomach, leading to nausea or food aversion.
Can worms cause a dog not to eat?Yes. Internal parasites like roundworms and hookworms steal nutrients, causing nausea, bloating, and appetite loss. Regular deworming every 3–6 months prevents parasite-related inappetence and malnutrition.
Does vaccination affect a dog’s appetite?Mild appetite loss for 24–48 hours after vaccination is common. This is part of the immune system’s response. However, prolonged refusal to eat, fever, or swelling at the injection site requires veterinary review.
Can medication make my dog not want to eat?Yes. Antibiotics, painkillers, and some anti-inflammatory drugs may cause nausea or alter taste. Giving medications with food (if permitted) and providing probiotics can help minimize digestive upset.
How do I get my dog to eat again?Warm the food slightly, add broth, or offer bland meals like boiled chicken and rice. Ensure a calm environment and stick to regular feeding times. Hand-feeding or gentle encouragement may also help. If appetite doesn’t return within 48 hours, consult your veterinarian.
Should I worry if my dog drinks water but doesn’t eat?If your dog is drinking but refusing food for more than a day, it could indicate illness or dental discomfort. Continued hydration is good, but the lack of appetite still requires medical evaluation.
Can emotional changes affect my dog’s eating habits?Yes. Dogs are sensitive to emotional environments. Household conflicts, new pets, or owners being away can lead to temporary appetite loss. Maintaining affection, routine, and calm surroundings helps stabilize behavior.
Can stomach upset cause my dog not to eat?Absolutely. Indigestion, gastritis, or food intolerance can cause nausea and inappetence. Feeding a bland diet and ensuring hydration can help mild cases, but ongoing symptoms need professional care.
Is loss of appetite common in older dogs?Yes. Senior dogs often eat less due to slower metabolism, reduced smell, dental pain, or organ disease. Switching to softer food and scheduling wellness exams can identify and manage age-related appetite changes.
Can feeding location or bowl type affect my dog’s eating?Yes. Noisy areas or uncomfortable bowl heights can discourage eating. Provide a quiet, safe feeding space and use stainless steel or ceramic bowls instead of plastic, which can retain odors and bacteria.
What home remedies can I try if my dog isn’t eating?You can offer warm, bland food, add a small amount of broth, or hand-feed in a quiet setting. Avoid seasoning or human food. If your dog’s appetite doesn’t improve within 48 hours, contact a veterinarian.
How can I tell if my dog’s appetite loss is serious?If your dog refuses food for more than two days or shows signs like vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, or gum color changes, it’s serious. Immediate veterinary evaluation is necessary to rule out life-threatening conditions.
Can dehydration cause a dog to lose appetite?Yes. Dehydration reduces digestion efficiency and causes nausea. Always ensure access to clean water and encourage fluid intake, especially in hot weather or after exercise.
Why does my dog refuse food but still eat treats?This often indicates mild nausea, dental pain, or behavioral pickiness. The dog may find softer, high-reward treats easier to eat. Limit treats and focus on resolving the underlying cause.
Can overfeeding cause appetite loss?Yes. Overfeeding or too many snacks lead to fullness and stomach discomfort. Measure portions accurately and avoid excessive table food or high-fat treats.
Is it dangerous if my puppy is not eating?Yes. Puppies can develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) within hours of not eating. Seek veterinary care immediately if a puppy refuses food or becomes weak or lethargic.
What should I feed my dog after an illness?After illness, offer small portions of a bland diet like boiled chicken, rice, or veterinary-prescribed recovery food. Gradually reintroduce normal food over several days to prevent stomach upset.
How can I prevent appetite problems in my dog?Maintain a consistent feeding schedule, provide high-quality food, ensure regular exercise, and schedule annual vet exams. Routine dental and parasite control also prevent many causes of appetite loss.
When should I see a vet about my dog not eating?If appetite loss lasts more than 24–48 hours or is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or behavioral changes, consult a veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis often prevents severe complications.
Sources
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Canine Nutrition and Feeding Behavior Guidelines
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) – Canine Preventive Care Recommendations
World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) – Global Nutritional and Clinical Health Guidelines
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine – Appetite Loss in Dogs: Causes and Treatments
Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic – Haritada Aç: https://share.google/XPP6L1V6c1EnGP3Oc




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