A veterinarian can diagnose a dog with liver damage.
Liver damage in dogs can be caused by a number of factors, including old age. A common cause of canine liver failure is heartworm disease. However, this can be avoided with preventive medication. The toxicity of chemicals and other substances can cause irreparable liver damage in dogs. Heat stroke can also cause liver failure or permanent liver damage in dogs.
Older age can be the cause of liver damage.
As a dog ages, vital organs like the liver and kidneys can begin to lose their function. An elderly dog may start to show signs of liver damage from other illnesses, such as bacterial or fungal infections. Advanced heart disease in an elderly dog can also cause liver damage.
Dogs receiving certain prescription medications to manage chronic disease may experience liver damage. Symptoms can be mild in the early stages and get progressively worse over time. Some signs of liver disease in dogs are weight loss and swelling. Jaundice can also occur in dogs with liver damage.
Heartworm disease is a common cause of canine liver damage.
Car accidents and falls often contribute to liver damage in dogs. When a dog receives blunt force trauma to the abdomen, the liver can tear or rupture. Internal bleeding can occur, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary to save a dog’s life. An injured liver can heal completely without any treatment.
Liver damage in dogs can also be genetic. Some dog breeds are predisposed to conditions that can cause liver stress or compromise. According to experts, certain breeds of terriers, as well as Dalmatians and Cocker Spaniels, are especially vulnerable.
Trauma to a dog’s abdomen that causes liver damage may require emergency surgery.
Viral hepatitis in dogs can be a serious or life-threatening condition. If the virus goes undetected and untreated over a long period of time, hepatitis can damage a dog’s liver. The effects of canine liver damage due to viral hepatitis can be reversed in the early stages if treated with antibiotics and other medications. A veterinarian can diagnose the condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment to prevent liver damage from progressing.
Some veterinarians believe that conventional dog foods lack the proper nutrients to support a healthy diet and liver.
Canine liver cancer often causes liver failure in dogs. Liver cancer is more common in older dogs, although a young dog may have a better chance of survival if the disease is discovered early. Dogs with liver cancer can undergo chemotherapy, although it is not generally recommended for older dogs.
Some veterinarians believe that diet plays a key role in the proper functioning of the canine liver. Experts believe that dogs consuming commercial dog food as their primary diet may not be getting the proper nutrition essential for liver function. A veterinarian may recommend a specially formulated diet for a dog showing signs of liver damage.