Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Complications of Liver Disease.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
- Year:
- 2025
- Authors:
- Lidbury, Jonathan A
- Affiliation:
- Department of Veterinary Small Animal Clinical Sciences · United States
Plain-English summary
Liver disease in dogs and cats can cause several problems. One common issue is vomiting, which may require medication to help control it, depending on the individual case. If there is fluid buildup in the abdomen (called ascites), it can be managed with a special diet low in salt, along with medications like spironolactone and careful use of furosemide. Another concern is hepatic encephalopathy, a condition that affects brain function, which can be treated with a proper diet and medications like lactulose and possibly antibiotics. Because liver disease can disrupt the balance of blood clotting factors, pets may be at risk for bleeding or blood clots if this balance is upset. Overall, treatment can help manage these complications, but careful monitoring is essential.
Abstract
Hepatobiliary disease in dogs and cats can lead to various complications. Vomiting is a common clinical sign in liver disease, and antiemetic therapy should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Ascites is managed by feeding a moderate sodium diet, therapy with spironolactone, and judicious use of furosemide. Hepatic encephalopathy is managed by feeding an appropriate diet and treating with lactulose and possibly an antimicrobial. Because coagulant and anticoagulant factors are affected in patients with hepatic dysfunction, they may be in an altered but balanced hemostatic state. This balance is fragile and bleeding or thrombosis can occur if it is disrupted.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40379581/