In animals with these defects, the portal vein bypasses the liver and materials that are normally carried from the intestines do not reach the liver. Certain materials e. Viral, parasitic, protozoal and bacterial infections may affect the liver and gall bladder. Bacterial infections may result in abscessation within the liver. Hepatic lipidosis is a syndrome seen in dogs with sugar diabetes. Abnormalities in the metabolism of glucose and fat in diabetic dogs cause an accumulation of fat in the liver that may eventually result in liver dysfunction.
Steroid hepatopathy is a condition in which there is excessive glycogen deposition in liver cells due to high circulating levels of steroids in the blood. Hepatotoxins agents or drugs harmful to the liver can cause severe, sometimes irreversible liver disease. Examples include heavy metals e. Chronic active hepatitis is an ongoing inflammatory disorder of the liver. It is one of the most common liver diseases of dogs and has many different causes.
Cirrhosis occurs when scar tissue replaces healthy liver cells. Cirrhosis may develop from any chronic, long-standing liver disease. Cholangiohepatitis is an inflammation of the bile carrying structures and the surrounding liver tissue. It is seen most often in cats but may rarely occur in the dog. Both benign and malignant tumors may develop within the liver. These tumors may develop only in the liver, or may spread to the liver from other organs.
Common liver tumors in the dog include hemangiosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, and metastatic tumors. There are many diagnostic tests that are helpful when evaluating the liver. Initial tests usually include a complete blood count, biochemistry profile and urinalysis.
A blood count may reveal evidence of infection, anemia or low protein. It may also show electrolyte abnormalities. A urinalysis may show increased excretion of protein by-products.
Other laboratory tests may be considered, depending upon results of the initial blood tests. Bile acids are blood tests that assess the function of the liver and the amount of liver that is diseased.
Blood ammonia, blood steroid and amino acid levels may be measured. Serology tests for certain viruses, protozoa and fungal diseases may be considered. Abdominal radiographs x-rays may show changes in liver size and shape. They may also reveal the present of ascites abdominal fluid , gallstones, and abnormalities in other abdominal organs. Chest x-rays may be performed to look for signs of metastatic tumors, fluid in the chest, and problems with the diaphragm.
Abdominal ultrasonography is very helpful in evaluating the internal structures of the liver. It provides valuable information about the consistency of the liver and can often identify blood vessel shunts, cysts, abscesses and tumors. In addition to jaundice, later stage symptom include:. Neurological problems, such as disorientation, pacing, aimless wandering, or lack of coordination can also happen in the end stages. These are caused by an accumulation of toxins that normally would have been eliminated by the liver.
Diagnosing liver disease requires a blood test to check the levels of enzymes, proteins, and other substances produced by the liver and a urinalysis to evaluate the overall health of the liver and kidneys.
Both of these tests can also help diagnose or rule out underlying illnesses. In addition, X-rays and an ultrasound can be done to see if the liver is enlarged and look for gallstones, cysts, or signs of cancer. In some cases, a liver biopsy might be needed for a more definitive diagnosis.
Treatment of liver disease in dogs is focused on managing the symptoms and addressing the underlying cause if it has been diagnosed. It can include:.
If your dog has liver cancer, chemotherapy or radiation could also be part of the treatment recommendations. If your dog has chronic liver disease, your veterinarian might suggest dietary changes, including store bought or prescription foods that are designed to help promote healthy liver function.
Your veterinarian can help you decide if these foods would be beneficial for your dog. There are things you can do to help prevent both acute liver failure and chronic liver disease. For instance:. It is also important to schedule regular exams for your dog so your veterinarian can check for early signs of liver disease.
You can get reimbursed for those exams and more if you have an ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plan and choose one of our preventive care coverage options at an additional cost. The cost for treating liver disease in dogs depends on the diagnostic tests, treatments, and medications that are needed—and it can get expensive.
All of that sneezing and coughing could mean your dog has the flu. Electrons like to be in pairs, so these free radicals are unstable atoms that scavenge surrounding atoms and steal their electrons … causing neighboring atoms to become unstable.
The liver cells add the amino acids glycine, cysteine or a sulfur molecule to the toxins … to make them less harmful. The toxins then become water-soluble. The liver and kidney work together to remove these water-soluble toxins via the bile and urine.
The oxidative processes of the liver make it the main place where free radicals accumulate. Free radicals build up like rust in the body and cause cell damage … and eventually, a damaged liver. This protects the body … because the liver plays so many fundamental roles in its health. Usually, by the time you notice signs of disease … the damage has happened and is irreversible. So … prevention is crucial!
First, what toxins are lead to liver damage. The excess free radical buildup can lead to chronic diseases throughout the body. But you might just mistake these for normal aging problems.
Even if he eats a fresh, clean diet and you avoid medications when possible … we live in a toxic environment. This means avoiding unnecessary vaccinations , pesticides, chemicals and drugs … and using natural alternatives. Synthetic vitamins and minerals in most pet foods add stress to the liver and kidneys. And most grains found in kibble can contain cancer-causing molds called mycotoxins. Even grain-free kibbles are full of pesticides and other toxins.
Processed foods also contain toxic byproducts … like heterocyclic amines and acrylamides. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that can detoxify the liver. It binds to toxins in the liver before they can cause any damage. Milk Thistle is also known as silymarin. It protects cells from toxins and oxidation … and helps liver cells regenerate. Milk thistle can help with acute support … and if your dog already has existing liver disease.
Milk thistle is best reserved for use when the liver is already under abnormal stress. You can find milk thistle in tincture liquid or powder form at most health food stores.
Buy organic milk thistle. If the product is made for dogs … follow the instructions on the label. Milk Thistle powder dose for dogs: mg per 10 pounds of body weight — 1 to 4 times daily.
Milk Thistle tincture dose for dogs: 1 to 2 drops per 10 pounds of body weight — 1 to 4 times daily. Caution: Do not give milk thistle to pregnant or lactating dogs. Remember how free radicals can harm your dog?
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