Liver Disease in Dogs
We are all aware of common canine health problems such as dental disease and skin infections. However, we must keep in mind that there are several less-visible conditions to keep an eye out for. For example, liver disease is not always easy to recognize with the symptoms that it projects. Unfortunately, liver disease is listed as the 5th leading cause of death for a dog. It is very important that pet owners become more familiar with the signs of liver disease in dogs. Continue reading to learn more.
There are detectable symptoms of liver disease in dogs and pet owners which can help us secure the proper treatment for our dogs. Symptoms of liver disease in dogs include:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Lethargy or weakness
- Increased thirst
- Decreased appetite
- Fluid retention in the abdomen
- Dark urine
It is crucial to remember that if your pet is suffering from canine liver disease, they may not display all of these symptoms, or maybe only even a handful. Keep in mind that these symptoms may also be indicators of other issues as. If you notice any of these warning signs, we recommend that you seek veterinary care immediately.
We are sure that you are wondering what the causes of canine liver issues are. The liver is the largest internal organ in both human and dogs. It is connected to a wide array of bodily functions. This means that if something goes wrong with the liver, it can impact overall health. Some of the most common causes of liver disease include congenital liver disease (when a new pathway develops between a portal vein), infectious liver disease (brought by viral, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections), or drug-induced liver disease (caused by medications). Typically, canine liver diseases are categorized as either chronic or acute. Chronic liver issues develop over longer periods of time and can be managed with consistent care. Acute conditions develop rapidly and will require immediate veterinary care.
