TP can drop in acute infections and inflammation when chemicals called cytokines are released into the pet's circulation (a negative acute phase response). (2ndchance.info)
The acute phase response to infection and inflammation induces alterations in iron homeostasis that reduce iron supplies to pathogens. (embl.de)
In fact, this state is the «Anorexia of infection,» an essential part of the acute phase response. (phen375pillsreview.com)