⚠️ Not veterinary advice. This guide is for education on minor issues only. If you are unsure, or your animal is in pain, call your veterinarian. In an emergency, call immediately.

Donkey off feed (hyperlipemia risk) in donkeys

Should I call the vet?

Typical signs: Reduced appetite, dullness, standing apart, often after stress, transport, pain or weight loss.

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Call your vet now if you see

Not eating for even 12–24 h
Dull/depressed
Obese donkey that stops eating

What you can do

Call vet promptly — blood test needed.
Tempt with favorite safe forage, fresh grass, chopped carrot.
Keep the companion nearby (stress makes it worse).
Keep warm and sheltered.

When to call the vet

Same day.

Normal adult vital signs (at rest)

Donkey

Vital	Normal	Concerning
Temperature	98.0–100.5 °F (37–38 °C)	Over 101.5 °F
Heart rate	36–68 /min	Over 70 at rest
Respiration	12–28 /min	Over 30 or labored
Gums / CRT	Moist pink, refill < 2 s	Pale, dark, tacky
Gut sounds	Present both sides	Silent
Behavior	Alert, eating	Dull or not eating = urgent (hyperlipemia risk)

Young animals differ. Learn each animal's healthy baseline and record it.

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