How to Treat Liver Disease in Dogs
- 1). Know the symptoms of liver disease in dogs: an increase in drinking and urination, loss of appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, distended abdomen, jaundice and vomiting. The symptoms can appear gradually or all at once.
- 2). Bring your dog to a veterinarian for proper diagnosis as soon as you notice symptoms. The liver has regenerative capabilities, so the earlier the problem is diagnosed, the greater the chances of treatment and management.
- 3). Follow the veterinarian's instructions for treatment and care. Sometimes liver disease in a dog can be managed with dietary modifications. An antibiotic is also prescribed if a bacterial infection is present.
- 4). Supplement your dogs diet with vitamin K. A diseased liver produces less vitamin K than a healthy liver, and vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting.
- 5). Give your dog vitamin E, an anti-oxidant to prevent further damage to the dog's liver. It is best to use a water soluble form of vitamin E, since some forms of liver disease decreases the body's ability to absorb fat soluble vitamins.
- 6). Feed your dog a healthy and natural diet. Commercial dog foods contain additives, preservatives and other toxins that can lead to and compound liver disease in dogs. Talk to a holistic vet for help designing a healthy diet for your dog. Typically this means preparing the food at home. The recommended diet is usually low in grains and free of additives and preservatives.
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