The liver is an organ of great importance due to the functions it performs in the body. It plays a fundamental role in the digestion, absorption, metabolism or storage of nutrients and in the elimination of toxins. Therefore, when the liver fails, the body suffers
It is essential to go to the vet, who will prescribe the appropriate treatment, but we may also be interested in home remedies for swollen liver in dogs, especially food-oriented, as we will see in this article on our site.
Symptoms of liver inflammation in dogs
The symptoms of liver problems usually begin nonspecifically, which means that the clinical signs are common to several diseases or, when they appear separately, are considered unimportant, which is why it can occur a delay in diagnosis Among the symptoms, we find the following:
- Jaundice, which is the yellowish coloration of the skin and mucous membranes. In these cases, the urine turns brown.
- Ascites, which is edema or fluid accumulation in the abdominal area. It can also be seen on the extremities.
- Mental or neurological problems due to encephalopathy, such as seizures, incoordination, disorientation, weakness, behavioral changes, hypersalivation, stupor, or, in more severe cases, coma.
- Chronic intermittent vomiting and diarrhea.
- Polydipsia, which is increased water consumption.
- Polyuria, which is urinating more often.
- Spontaneous bleeding, red dots can be seen on the mucous membranes. They are called petechiae. You can also see bruises in different parts of the body or blood in stool, vomit and urine.
- Pain in the abdominal area.
- Inappetence.
- Weightloss.
If we appreciate any of these symptoms, we should not administer home remedies for swollen liver in dogs as a first option, because beforehand it is essential Let the vet make the diagnosis. Polydipsia or vomiting, for example, are also symptoms of other diseases, so it is necessary to rule out and confirm the causing pathology before starting any treatment.
Causes of Liver Inflammation in Dogs
There are several causes that can affect the liver and cause it to swell. For this reason, the main thing is to always go, first of all, to the veterinarian, so that through the pertinent tests, such as blood tests, ultrasounds, biopsies or even computerized tomography, a diagnosis is reached that allows us to guide the treatment and home remedies. for inflamed liver in dogs.
Depending on this cause, the inflammation can resolve over time or become chronic, in which case treatment, diet included, would have to be prescribed for life. The following situations cause inflammation of the liver:
- Acute hepatitis.
- Chronic hepatitis.
- Copper-associated hepatitis.
- Cirrhosis.
- Abscesses.
- Systemic diseases.
- Poisoning.
- Portosystemic shunts.
Less often, liver inflammation is due to gallstones, tumors, or pancreatitis. Each cause will have a specific treatment.
Home remedies for liver inflammation in dogs - Treatment
The diet is a fundamental pillar for the recovery or maintenance of the quality of life of dogs with an inflamed liver. In addition to the medication prescribed by the vet, at home we can focus the home remedies for swollen liver in dogs on nutritionIt has to offer a higher intake of energy and high-quality protein to combat malnutrition caused by a diseased liver. In addition, proteins help regenerate some liver injuries and prevent complications such as ascites or encephalopathy.
The proteins in these cases do not have to be limited to an animal origin, since those that come from soybeans, corn or dairy productsfeel better for dogs that have developed encephalopathy. It is also necessary to take care of the fiber intake and minerals such as zinc, manganese or selenium, group B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E are recommended.
As it is usual for the dog to show a lack of appetite, the food must be very palatable, hence resorting to homemade food is an option, as it is more attractive to the dog in this regard. Of course, before using foods rich in the nutrients that we have specified, it is necessary to consult with the veterinarian because the menu must be balanced and adapted to the specific clinical situation Of the dog. It is better to distribute the daily ration in small portions, about 3-6 a day. Also, if fed with dry food, it may need to be soaked and briefly microwaved to make it more palatable.
