What does it mean when your dog has elevated liver levels?

Follow On: Elevated liver levels in dogs are indicative of health problems that should be resolved at the earliest, under the guidance of the vet. This is because the dog’s liver is crucial to your pet’s continued good health as it’s responsible for the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

Can a 14 year old dog have liver failure?

My dog has had elevated liver enzymes and a high white blood… my parents took their 14 year old dog to the vet, and here are her blood test results. The vet said she could be in liver failure, but there were no … read more

When to worry about your dog’s liver enzymes?

It’s not uncommon for the ALT levels to vary widely from dog to dog, and most vets will not be alarmed unless your pet’s ALT levels are at least 3 times the normal rate on multiple readings. A slight increase in the enzyme AST can be indicative of very serious liver problems like cirrhosis and cancer.

How can I tell if my dog has liver disease?

The only way to get a 100% diagnosis of liver disease is with a biopsy. Yep, we have to cut a piece out of the liver and send it off to the lab. If your dog is acting sick, losing weight, or we know something ain’t right, this can be a great step!

Why can a dog have elevated bilirubin?

An elevated level of bilirubin in dogs is a result of a dog’s system breaking down red blood cells at an abnormal rate. If your dog has elevated levels of bilirubin, this may be a sign that an underlying health condition is present.

What is normal liver level in dogs?

Normal level in dogs is 15-66. Alkaline phosphatase is also present in the liver, as well as bone, placenta and other locations. From the liver, it normally moves into the intestinal tract along with bile through the bile ducts.

What causes high liver enzymes in dogs?

Elevated liver enzymes in dogs can sometimes be caused by metabolic diseases – this refers to obesity (causing fat to be deposited in the Liver). Other causes of the condition can include diabetes, thyroid problems, pancreatitis and cushings disease.

What is the best dog food for elevated liver enzymes?

Fish and organic meats such as chicken and beef are a good choice because they are free of hormones and pesticides that are bad for the liver. Adding fiber in the form of beet pulp, broccoli or other vegetables also can help improve the liver and make your dog feel better.