Terra Linda Veterinary Hospital - Cat, Dog Liver Disease

The liver is the largest organ in a pet's body. With approximately 1,500 functions the liver plays a central role in digestion and conversion of nutrients, removal of toxic substances, synthesis of key components of the blood and storage of vitamins and minerals. The term "liver disease" covers a wide range of conditions in which the liver is functioning at less than peak efficiency.

Causes of Liver Disease

Because there are many possible causes of liver disease, a specific diagnosis may be difficult. Some causes include but aren't limited to:

Viral and bacterial infections
Poisonous substances and drugs ingested by the pet
Altered blood flow to the liver due to heart disease or a congenital or acquired abnormality
Breed tendencies (certain breeds such as Bedlingtons and West Highland White Terriers do not excrete copper properly; others, such as Siamese cats and Cocker Spaniels are more likely to develop liver diseases)

In cats, simply not eating for two or three days may result in a life-threatening disease called Feline Hepatic Lipidosis. If your cat does not eat for two days contact your veterinarian immediately. Feline Hepatic Lipidosis occurs when fat levels in the liver are very high and begin to overwhelm the liver's ability to function. This problem is not fully understood but your veterinarian can evaluate the severity of the disease and prescribe the best method of management.

Signs of Liver Disease

The more common signs of liver disease in adult dogs and cats include:

Lack of appetite and weight loss

Depression (lack of energy or decreased interest in usual routines)

Jaundice (yellowing of skin and whites of eyes)

Increased thirst

Dark colored urine

Buildup of fluid in abdomen (may be mistaken for weight gain)

Pale gums

Home Care

Watch for signs of illness. If they appear contact your veterinarian.

follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully for feeding and medicating your pet.

Speak to your veterinarian before changing your pet's medication or feeding regimen.

Divide each day's food ration into frequent small meals, including one at bedtime.

Provide access to fresh, clean water.

Feeding Recommendations

A food with highly digestible proteins, carbohydrates and fats in combination with other nutrients helps limit the production of metabolic toxins, reduces liver workload, improves liver efficiency and allows recovery. The liver has a large reserve capacity and, unlike some other organs in the body, has the ability to regenerate. If the source of harm is eliminated and the pet receives proper nutrition, chances for recovery are good.

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