You can swiftly diagnose and treat a health problem in your dog if you discover recognizable symptoms, such as swelling or a limp. Sadly, canine liver disease occasionally progresses unnoticed 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?
The liver disease makes up short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) problems that can impair this organ. Do you know that the liver is the second largest organ in the dog’s body and works in numerous essential roles? This organ processes and collects hazardous substances, making it vulnerable to disease.
The symptoms and causes of canine liver disease differ widely. It ranges in severity from moderate to fatal, and your dog may reveal no signs or symptoms at all.
Symptoms of Liver Disease in Dogs
The early indications of liver ailment are non-specific, meaning numerous other conditions share them. Due to this, detecting liver problems can be challenging. Several of the first indicators may include:
- 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 turns yellow, you must drop everything and head straight to the pet pharmacy. Vet attention is required instantaneously for this condition.
What Are the Causes of It?
Liver disease can develop as a natural result of getting older. Genes play a role often. On the other hand, disease or trauma might also cause this problem. 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 harmful substance
- Viral or bacterial infection
- Cysts or gallstones
- Cancer of the liver
The vet may check out your dog’s diet and medication regimen if they discover any indications of liver disease. They may recommend some tests to see what’s up with your dog’s liver, including blood tests and X-rays or a CT scan. If your vet does not provide these services, there is a lot of vet providing CT scan for cats in Tigard you can visit.
Is It Treatable?
Many health problems affecting the liver are relatively treatable. The veterinarian at Cascade Veterinary Referral Center can treat the symptoms and the underlying condition once the cause has been identified. Medicine, vitamins, dietary modifications, and even soft-tissue surgery can all help.
Slow-developing problems, like chronic liver disease, are commonly easier to detect and cure. Unfortunately, acute liver disease is more severe and frequently results in liver failure.
Can It Be Prevented?
Luckily, pet parents can lessen 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 balanced diet. Go to a trusted vet if you have concerns about whether or not the food you’re giving your dog is healthy.
Protecting your dog from deadly diseases by updating them on vaccinations is essential. Regularly seeing a veterinarian is also vital for detecting liver complications early, which can help your dog live longer.
The Bottom Line
You, the pet owner, are in charge of knowing the symptoms of liver disease so that you can get your pet to the veterinarian immediately if they show up. Certain types of liver diseases are fatal, but your dog can be defended and treated with the right treatments and precautions. Talk with your veterinarian to prevent worrying and stressing about your dog’s safety.
