The liver is responsible for many vital roles in the body. These include removing toxins from the blood, contributing to immune regulation, and producing bile to aid digestion. Liver disease is a broad term used to describe any disorder that damages the liver and impairs its function. The condition affects both cats and dogs and can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening symptoms.
Causes of Liver Disease
There are many causes of liver disease in pets. These include infection, toxicity, and congenital conditions. Liver disease may also be idiopathic, this means that it has no identifiable cause. In dogs, liver disease is commonly caused by underlying illnesses such as diabetes, hepatitis, and Cushing’s disease. Some of the most common causes of liver disease in cats include hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver) and neutrophilic cholangitis, a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the liver.
Symptoms of Liver Disease
Symptoms of liver disease can vary widely since the liver is responsible for many roles in the body. Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of the condition.
- Weight loss
- Jaundice
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Anorexia
- Polyuria (increased urination)
- Polydipsia (increased thirst)
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Depression
Diagnosis of Liver Disease
Your veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of their symptoms. They will then perform a complete physical examination to check for clinical signs of liver disease.
Routine diagnostic tests including bloodwork and a urinalysis will be carried out to assess your pet’s liver function. Imaging techniques such as X-rays and ultrasounds may also be used to examine the liver. If a definitive diagnosis is needed, your veterinarian will perform a liver biopsy.
Treatment of Liver Disease
Treatment of liver disease will depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, a period of hospitalization may be necessary to stabilize your pet and provide supportive care.
Potential treatments for liver disease include specialized treatment regimens for conditions such as diabetes, medications to improve liver function, and dietary changes to support liver health. In addition, medications such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatories may be prescribed to help manage your pet’s symptoms.
Your veterinarian will recommend appropriate treatment methods based on your pet’s specific needs. Please follow all treatment advice closely and administer prescribed medications as instructed.
Prevention of Liver Disease
Liver disease in pets can be challenging to prevent since there are so many potential causes of the condition. We recommend feeding a healthy, balanced diet and providing plenty of exercise to support your pet’s health. It’s also important to prevent access to toxic substances and avoid overmedicating your pet. Finally, please remember to schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s overall health.
