Liver failure in dogs, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
The liver is a vital organ not just in humans, but in dogs too.
The function of the liver is to remove wastes from the body, purify the blood and produce bile to aid digestion. The ideal functioning of the liver is integral to the growth of your dog. Liver disorders in dogs can therefore be extremely worrying, having some serious implications. .
Some of the common liver conditions in dogs are: liver tumors, liver infections, small liver in dogs, and liver toxicity in dogs. If left untreated, liver disease can cause permanent damage and liver failure. A liver failure can be fatal consequences for your dog. Bacterial infections, heredity and food poisoning can trigger liver diseases that damage the liver over a period of time.
Liver damage results in liver failure in dogs.
Causes of liver failure in dogs:
Various causes can contribute to the damage of the liver. Some common causes are:
- Toxins found in preservatives, additives, pesticides and commercial dog food
- Low immunity
- Genetic history and
- Bacterial infections
Symptoms of liver disease failure
Symptoms of liver disease may appear suddenly or over a period of time. Liver disease symptoms are similar to symptoms exhibited by other health disorders. An early diagnosis of liver disease can help render appropriate medication. The liver has a natural ability to restore its health with appropriate medication and diet. The common symptoms of liver disease failure are:
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Jaundice
- Heart Disease
- Pale grey feces
- Urine appears orange in color
- Constipation
- Viral Infection
- Distended Abdomen
- Bacterial Infection
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
Diagnosis:
A liver disease can be diagnosed with the help of blood tests and symptoms exhibited by your pet. Certain symptoms such as sudden weight loss, bleeding disorders and abnormal colored feces are major indicators of liver damage. Abdominal pain is also one the most common symptoms exhibited by dogs with liver disease. Early diagnosis can help prevent liver failure. Liver medication for dogs and appropriate diet changes can help resolve liver problems.
Treatment
Dietary changes are known to benefit dogs with liver damage. A veterinarian can help prescribe an appropriate diet comprising of required carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, proteins and fats. Dietary changes can also help stimulate regeneration of damaged liver cells. Commercial dog food may contain preservatives and toxins that affect the liver of your dog over a period of time. It is advisable to avoid commercial dog food and prepare natural and healthy food choices. Home made, non spicy foods with boiled water are the ideal way to treat your dog.
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