Canine liver disease is one of the top five causes of death in dogs. The liver is involved in virtually every process in the body, so the overall health of your dog will suffer if the liver is compromised. Some of the responsibilities of the liver include blood detoxification, waste removal, and bile production to aid digestion.
Causes
Canine liver disease can be caused by bacterial infections, genetics, or existing health conditions. It can also be brought on when your dog ingests toxic chemicals. Common chemicals that can cause canine liver disease include insecticides, lead, phosphorus, and iron.
Symptoms
When your dog has canine liver disease, he will display various symptoms. Common symptoms include weight loss, lethargy, jaundice, and loss of appetite. The dog may also experience jaundice, in which his eyes, gum, and skin will turn yellow. Other symptoms of canine liver disease are swollen belly, depression, and diarrhea.
Diagnosis
Canine liver disease is rarely diagnosed in its early stages because the liver is able to function even if 80% of it is damaged. By the time symptoms show, the disease will usually be in an advanced stage. The veterinarian will usually perform blood tests to check enzyme levels in the liver. He may also be able to detect canine liver disease by feeling for liver enlargement, jaundice, or other symptoms of the disease.
Treatment
Treatment of canine liver disease depends on the cause and severity of the damage. There is a good chance of recovery if the problem can be determined because the liver is capable of regenerating itself. The veterinarian will try to identify and remove any drug or toxin that is harmful to the dog’s liver.
Dietary adjustments also play a role in treatment of canine liver disease. Providing your dog with the right vitamins, fats, and minerals can help to restore liver function. You can help reduce the liver’s workload by reducing the amount of chemical preservatives and additives that your dog consumes. If affected by canine liver disease, your dog should not consume foods like sugar, chocolate, bones, peppers, and tomatoes.