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Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can have various causes in dogs. The liver is a very important organ that performs many functions in your dog's body, such as digestion, detoxification and blood clotting. If the liver is inflamed, this can lead to serious health problems or even death.

In this article you will learn more about the different types of hepatitis in dogs, its symptoms, treatment and how to prevent it.

Ordinary hepatitis

Ordinary hepatitis is caused by taking medication or toxic substances that can damage the liver. These can include painkillers, antibiotics, pesticides or chocolate, for example. The symptoms of this type of hepatitis often only become apparent when the disease is already advanced. They can be

  • Loss of appetite
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhea
  • Jaundice (yellowish discoloration of eyes and mucous membranes)
  • abdominal pain
  • bleeding
  • apathy

Diagnosis is made by means of a blood test, which indicates the state of liver function. Treatment consists of identifying and eliminating the cause of the poisoning, as well as supporting and regenerating the liver. This may include, for example, infusions, medication or special food.

Autoimmune hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis is caused by a fault in your dog's immune system. The immune system mistakes the liver cells for pests and destroys them. This leads to chronic inflammation of the liver, which slowly worsens.

The symptoms of this type of hepatitis are similar to those of common hepatitis, but may also include fever, swelling of the lymph nodes or loss of coordination.

Diagnosis is made by a blood test that detects antibodies against the liver cells. Treatment consists of suppressing the immune system and reducing the inflammation. This may include cortisone or other immunosuppressants.

Viral hepatitis

Viral hepatitis, also known as hepatitis contagiosa canis or Rubarth's disease, is caused by the canine adenovirus 1. This virus is very contagious and can be transmitted through contact with urine, feces or saliva of infected animals. Puppies or dogs without vaccination are particularly at risk.

The symptoms of this type of hepatitis appear 2-5 days after infection and can include

  • Fever
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhea
  • jaundice
  • loss of appetite
  • severe thirst
  • apathy
  • abdominal pain
  • bleeding

The diagnosis is made by examining the nasal secretions, blood or urine to detect the virus. Treatment consists of alleviating the symptoms and preventing complications. This may include, for example, infusions, antibiotics or painkillers.

Prevention of hepatitis in dogs

The best prevention of hepatitis in dogs is regular vaccination against canine adenovirus 1. This vaccination should be given from the eighth week of life and boostered every three years.

You should also make sure that your dog does not eat or drink any toxic substances and that it has a balanced diet.

If you notice signs of hepatitis in your dog, you should not hesitate to consult a vet. The earlier the disease is detected and treated, the better the chances of recovery.

Hepatitis in dogs can have various causes: Ordinary hepatitis caused by drugs or toxic substances, autoimmune hepatitis caused by malfunction of the immune system, and viral hepatitis caused by Canine Adenovirus 1. Symptoms are similar but can vary. Diagnosis is made by blood tests or other tests. Treatment methods vary depending on the cause. The best prevention is regular vaccination against canine adenovirus 1. It is important to watch for signs of hepatitis and see a veterinarian for early detection and treatment of the disease.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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