You can swiftly diagnose and deal with a health problem in your dog if you detect evident signs and symptoms, such as swelling or a limp. Sadly, canine liver disease sometimes progresses unseen until it is at a deadly stage. This makes canine liver disease among the top causes of death, and it is a significant problem.
What Is Canine Liver Disease?
Liver disease comprises short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) problems that can affect this organ. Do you know that the liver is the second largest organ in the dog’s body and works in various crucial duties? This organ processes and accumulates harmful substances, making it prone to disease.
The signs and symptoms, and causes of canine liver disease differ widely. It ranges in severity from moderate to fatal, and your dog might show no signs or symptoms at all.
Symptoms of Liver Disease in Dogs
The early indications of liver ailment are non-specific, indicating several other conditions share them. Because of this, diagnosing liver complications can be challenging. A few of the initial indicators might consist of the following:
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Loss of Appetite
- Fever
Jaundice, in which the skin, eyes, and gums appear yellow, may develop as the problem worsens. If your dog starts turning yellow, you should drop everything and head straight to the animal hospital. Veterinary attention is needed instantaneously for this problem. You can also click here to book a schedule with them to start the necessary lab tests for accurate diagnosis.
What Are the Causes of It?
Liver disease can develop as a natural result of getting older. Genes contribute sometimes. On the other hand, disease or trauma might also induce this condition. Do note that it is possible to cause liver damage in your dog by exposure to certain diseases and treatments. The liver disease could also have other potential causes, such as:
- Ingestion of a hazardous substance
- Viral or bacterial infection
- Cysts or gallstones
- Cancer of the liver
The veterinarian may check out your dog’s diet and medication regimen if they detect any indicators of liver disease. They recommend some examinations to see what’s up with your dog’s liver, including blood tests, X-rays, or CT scans. If your vet doesn’t offer these services, there is a vet offering a CT scan for animals in Tigard you can visit.
Is It Treatable?
Many ailments impairing the liver are treatable. The vet can treat the symptoms and the underlying condition once the cause has been identified. Medicine, vitamins, dietary modifications, and even animal soft tissue surgery can all help.
Slow-developing problems, like chronic liver disease, are usually easier to diagnose and treat. However, acute liver disease is more severe and frequently causes liver failure.
Can It Be Prevented?
Fortunately, pet parents can minimize their dogs’ susceptibility to liver issues by taking preventive measures. A dog’s liver can be kept in good working order by feeding it a well-balanced diet. Go to a trusted vet if you have concerns about whether or not the food you’re providing your dog is healthy.
Protecting your dog from fatal diseases by updating them on vaccinations is essential. Regularly seeing a vet is also vital for discovering liver problems early, allowing your dog to live longer.
The Bottom Line
You, the pet owner, are responsible for knowing the symptoms of liver disease so that you can get your pet to the veterinarian instantly if they show up. Certain types of liver illnesses are fatal, but your dog can be protected and treated with the right treatments and precautions. Speak with your vet to avoid worrying and stressing about your dog’s safety.
