Liver failure in dogs

Liver failure in dogs is a severe liver disease that can be caused by various factors and manifests itself in the disruption of the hepatobiliary system, complete or partial.

There are several reasons for its development: chronic and acute hepatitis, poisoning, microorganisms (babesia, leptospira, canine distemper, etc.), some drugs, portosystemic shunt, neoplasms, injuries, autoimmune processes.

Liver Failure in Dogs: Essentials

• Liver failure in dogs is a dangerous disease in which all liver functions are impaired;

• Symptoms are usually severe, the main ones are yellowness of the skin and mucous membranes, lethargy, changes in appetite, ascites, neurological disorders;

• Diagnosis must necessarily include a thorough examination, ultrasound, blood tests. Additional studies may be required (biopsy, X-ray, cytology, PCR);

• Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease, the underlying cause, and other factors;

• Prevention includes a balanced diet, timely vaccination and treatment against parasites.

Symptoms

With liver damage, the most common symptoms are icterus (icterus) of the mucous membranes and skin, this is especially noticeable on the gums, skin of the ears, and eyes. In addition to icterus in liver failure, dogs often experience a severe decrease in appetite or refusal to eat, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and ascites. Neurological disorders such as seizures, disorientation, unsteady gait, etc. are not uncommon.

Diagnostics

To diagnose liver failure in dogs, you need to consult a general practitioner or gastroenterologist. First of all, you need a thorough inspection. After the examination, blood tests and ultrasound are performed. In addition, analysis of effusion fluid, biopsy, tests for infections and invasions (such as canine distemper, leptospirosis, piroplasmosis, etc.) may be required.

If a portosystemic shunt is suspected, Doppler ultrasound, portography, CT, MRI are performed. Which tests will need to be passed, the doctor will decide at the appointment.

Treatment of Liver Failure in Dogs

As a rule, first of all, symptomatic therapy is provided, that is, anesthesia, droppers, replenishment of deficiencies. Direct treatment of the liver consists of taking several drugs. Depending on the severity of the course of the disease and the cause of its occurrence, therapy can vary greatly. Often used drugs from the group of hepatoprotectors. Their effectiveness in animals is poorly understood, but based on experience with their use, there is a positive effect from their use. Quite often, the use of antibiotics, antiprotozoal, anticonvulsant, antidotes and antidotes is required, in some cases surgery is indicated (for example, with a shunt, tumors).

Prevention

To prevent liver failure in dogs, vaccination and antiparasitic treatment are required on time.

It is equally important to follow proper nutrition. You can not give your pet products “from the table.” Fried foods and an excess of hard-to-digest nutrients, stale foods can cause liver dysfunction. The diet must be balanced.

Do not treat your pet with chocolate and cocoa!

Watch your pet carefully on a walk, do not let him pick up unknown objects on the street. At home, household chemicals and other hazardous substances should be carefully hidden.

You can not give drugs without a prescription from a veterinarian. Many drugs are contraindicated for use in dogs: for example, paracetamol causes severe liver damage and even death.

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For a more detailed study of the problem, we recommend contacting a specialist.

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April 6 2021

Updated: 22 May 2022