Canine liver disease ranks fifth among non-accidental causes of death in dogs. Liver disease is the term the medical community uses to describe any type of liver disorder. It usually takes awhile before an animal experiences complete liver failure because of the organ’s amazing ability to function in spite of infections, cancers, or other trauma.
The symptoms of liver disease can be difficult to spot due to the nature of the liver and its extensive interactions with a multitude of other organs in your dog’s body. If part of the liver is failing, other parts of the organ kick into overdrive and take over for the affected section. Therefore, once symptoms are exhibited, infections of the liver could be well advanced.
Your veterinarian will physically examine your dog, checking for an enlarged liver or fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity. She will ask you if you’ve observed some of the common symptoms associated with liver disease: diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, jaundice, increased drinking and frequent urination.
Treating canine liver disease can be effective in early diagnoses. The liver is unique in that it has regenerative power so if the problem is isolated, the chance of recovery improves. The goals of treatment are to eliminate any harmful agent or minimize its detrimental effects on the liver, promote healing and regeneration, and keep your pet as healthy as possible until sufficient liver functioning is re-established.