Liver Disease in Dogs and Cats: What Pet Owners Need to Know

3 min read

When it comes to your pet’s health, few diagnoses can sound as worrying as liver disease. The liver plays a critical role in filtering toxins, aiding digestion, and regulating metabolism, so when it’s not working properly, your pet’s entire body can be affected.

The good news? Many forms of liver disease in dogs and cats can be managed—or even reversed—when caught early. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options can make all the difference for your furry friend.

In this post, we’ll break down what liver disease is, how to spot it, and what steps you can take to give your pet the best possible outcome.

Why the Liver Is So Important for Pets

The liver is essentially your pet’s chemical processing plant. It:

• Filters waste and toxins from the blood

• Helps digest fats through bile production

• Stores vitamins, minerals, and energy reserves

• Regulates important blood proteins and clotting factors

When the liver is damaged, these vital processes slow down or stop, leading to a variety of health issues.

Common Causes of Liver Disease in Dogs and Cats

Liver disease can be triggered by a wide range of factors:

• Infections – Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can inflame or damage the liver.

• Toxins – Certain plants, medications, chemicals, and even some human foods (like onions or xylitol) are toxic to the liver.

• Genetics – Some breeds are more prone to liver issues (e.g., Labrador Retrievers, Doberman Pinschers, Siamese cats).

• Other Illnesses – Conditions like diabetes, cancer, or pancreatitis can affect liver function.

• Age-Related Changes – Older pets may experience liver decline as part of aging.

  
  

Signs of Liver Disease to Watch For

Because the liver is connected to so many body functions, symptoms can vary. Look out for:

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Increased thirst and urination

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Yellowing of the gums, eyes, or skin (jaundice)

• Lethargy or confusion

• Abdominal swelling

• 
  

🔍 Tip: Symptoms often appear gradually, so regular vet checkups are key for early detection.

How Liver Disease Is Diagnosed and Treated

Your veterinarian will typically start with blood tests and may recommend ultrasound imaging or a liver biopsy for a more accurate diagnosis.

Treatment may include:

1. Medications – To reduce inflammation, fight infection, or support liver function.

2. Dietary Changes – Prescription diets that are low in copper and high in easily digestible proteins.

3. Supplements – SAMe, milk thistle, or other liver-supportive supplements (only under veterinary guidance).

4. Addressing the Cause – Removing toxins, treating infections, or managing underlying diseases.

💡 Early treatment can prevent further liver damage and help your pet maintain a good quality of life.

Supporting Your Pet at Home

In addition to your vet’s plan:

• Stick to a liver-friendly diet

• Avoid giving any human medications or supplements unless approved by your vet

• Keep your pet’s environment free of toxic plants, chemicals, and unsafe foods

• Schedule regular follow-ups to monitor progress

Why Awareness Matters

The liver has an incredible ability to heal itself if damage is caught early. By recognizing the signs of liver disease and acting quickly, you can help your dog or cat live a longer, healthier life.

And remember—many medications used in managing liver conditions have human equivalents that could be filled at a regular pharmacy, often for much less. A prescription discount card can help you save significantly on these treatments.

💵 Lower Costs – Save on medications with a prescription discount card

🏪 Convenience – Fill your pet’s meds where you fill your own

📱 Easy Access to Discounts – Apply savings instantly online or in-store