You can quickly diagnose and deal with a health problem in your dog if you detect visible signs and symptoms, such as swelling or a limp. Sadly, canine liver disease occasionally advances unnoticed until it goes to a deadly stage. This makes canine liver disease among the top causes of death, and it is an essential concern.

What Is Canine Liver Disease?

Liver disease comprises short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) conditions that can affect this organ. Do you know that the liver is the second largest organ in the dog’s body and provides numerous essential roles? This organ processes and accumulates harmful substances, making it vulnerable to disease.

The signs, symptoms, and root causes of canine liver disease differ widely. It ranges in severity from moderate to fatal, and your dog might show no symptoms at all.

Symptoms of Liver Disease in Dogs

The early indications of liver illness are non-specific, meaning many other problems share them. Due to this, identifying liver problems can be challenging. Several of the initial indications might consist of the following:

• Vomiting
• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Loss of Appetite
• Fever

Jaundice, in which the skin, eyes, and gums appear yellow, could develop as the problem aggravates. If your dog begins turning yellow, you should drop everything and go straight to Cascade Veterinary Referral Center. Vet attention and complete diagnosis are required quickly for this condition.

What Are the Causes of It?

Liver disease can develop as a natural result of getting older. Genes play a role sometimes. On the other hand, an illness or trauma could also cause 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 harmful substance
• Viral or bacterial infection
• Cysts or gallstones
• Cancer of the liver

The veterinarian might examine your dog’s diet and medication regimen if they discover any signs of liver disease. They may suggest tests to see what’s up with your dog’s liver, including blood tests, X-rays, or a CT scan. If your current veterinarian does not provide these services, a veterinary facility providing CT scan for animals in Tigard is available.

Is It Treatable?

Many diseases affecting the liver are quite treatable. The vet can deal with the signs and symptoms and the underlying condition once the cause has been found. Medicine, vitamins, dietary modifications, and even soft tissue surgery can all help.

Slow-developing problems, like chronic liver disease, usually are simpler to detect and cure. On the other hand, acute liver disease is more severe and often causes liver failure.

Can It Be Prevented?

Fortunately, pet parents can lessen their dogs’ vulnerability 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 questions about whether or not the food you’re providing your dog is healthy.

Protecting your dog from fatal diseases by keeping them updated on vaccinations is essential. Consistently seeing a vet is also vital for detecting liver complications early, which can help your dog live longer.

The Bottom Line

You, the pet owner, are accountable for knowing the symptoms of liver disease so that you can get your pet to the vet instantly 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 vet to avoid worrying and stressing about your dog’s safety.