This occurs because a normal function of the liver is to rid the body of toxins and to metabolize proteins.Īs the liver stops doing its job, toxins begin to build up in your dog’s body, causing these neurologic effects. This is called “ hepatic encephalopathy”. Other neurologic symptoms may include blindness, dizziness, seizures, disorientation, pacing, and aimless wandering. Once in end-stage liver failure, your dog may have significant depression and a change in mentality. When the liver stops being able to make albumin, your dog will leak fluid into the spaces surrounding their organs in their abdomen, causing them to look “pot-bellied”. The liver makes a protein, called albumin, which helps to keep fluid within your dog’s blood vessels and organs. You may also notice your dog’s abdomen becoming distended. These include a yellow discoloration to your dog’s skin, the inner aspect of their ear flaps, or to the white of their eyes. Middle StagesĪs liver disease progresses and your dog’s liver stops being able to do the things it normally does, you may notice more obvious things. If caught early enough, liver disease can be slowed down by starting your dog on special supplements and food. Usually this is when there is on-going inflammation in their liver due to an underlying cause, which we will discuss in a bit. They also may have some nausea and vomiting. In the early stages of liver disease, when the liver is still able to function to a certain degree, your dog may just be more tired than usual or have a finicky appetite. Other times, such as if your dog ate something toxic, they can develop liver failure very quickly and become sick within a 24-hour time period. If you are ever concerned something is just not quite right with your dog, always schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. That is why it is good to not ignore any subtle changes to your dog’s behavior, routine, and appetite. Sometimes dogs can slowly develop liver failure and not show any indication anything is wrong until it gets really bad.
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