Management of liver disease in dogs and cats.

Liver disease may cause a variety of clinical signs, including depression, anorexia, weakness, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, jaundice, ascites and CNS signs. Treatment is aimed at eliminating the cause, providing supportive care, and preventing secondary complications. Rest facilitates liver regeneration. Hypokalemia, respiratory alkalosis and hypoglycemia may complicate liver disease. Fluids should be given IV rather than SC to severely dehydrated animals. Preferred solutions include Ringer's and half-strength saline with 2.5% dextrose. Solutions containing lactate should not be used. Dietary management includes feeding adequate amounts of protein of high biologic value, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals.