Zinc For Dogs With Liver Disease

Other possible signs of liver disease in dogs include dark colored urine pale gums or a buildup of fluid in the abdomen that could be mistaken for sudden weight gain.

Zinc for dogs with liver disease.

A study in dogs fed hepatotoxic mushrooms showed a protective effect against clinical and pathologic changes when high doses of milk thistle were given at 5 and 12 hours post exposure. Canine liver disease in common in dogs. A review of zinc ingestion toxicity secondary to penny ingestion in which three of the five dogs passed away emphasizes the potentially fatal complications of the disease related to zinc. Zinc toxicity presents in dogs in a variety of ways.

It appears to be safe at commonly recommended doses but can cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs. Liver problems are more commonly diagnosed in senior dogs as opposed to adult or young dogs. Products such as liver aid formula contain ingredients such as milk thistle which is a highly regarded liver tonic and restorative. Your veterinarian can administer tests to diagnose liver disease.

However puppies are sometimes born with a disease called liver shunt which hinders the blood. Herbal preparations can act in a supportive role to strengthen the dog s body and aid in healing. While some dogs suffering from hepatitis and bodily infections develop liver problems other pets that have been exposed to toxic chemicals suffer from liver damage and even liver failure. You should give dogs with liver disease a low salt diet.

Zinc may reduce absorption of copper from food in the gastrointestinal tract although how effective it really is remains unclear. Some breeds are more susceptible than others but it is considered one of the top 5 causes of non accidental death in dogs. Veterinarians have used milk thistle for dogs with chronic liver disease and to ameliorate hepatic effects of anticonvulsants. Excessive panting vomiting lethargy diarrhea rapid breathing with an erratic or fast heartrate and even jaundice.

The liver is meant to clean the body by removing toxins and waste products and aid in digestion. Zinc is another supplement that is frequently used in dogs with copper associated liver disease. The signs of liver disease are not very specific making it difficult to recognize. Canine liver problems arise due to different reasons.

This is to prevent the fluid in the abdomen from building up. Zinc should be included in the diet although some dogs may not tolerate zinc as it is a digestive irritant.