What Is Hepatology in Dogs & Cats?
Hepatology deals with diseases of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. When pets show signs like vomiting, diarrhea, appetite changes, lethargy, a swollen belly or jaundice, I use advanced testing to detect liver disorders early and create treatment strategies that protect long-term health.
Signs & Symptoms of Liver or Gallbladder Disease in
Dogs and Cats
Because the liver has such a large reserve capacity, signs of disease may not appear until significant damage has occurred. Pet owners should be aware of early symptoms, including:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Increased thirst and urination
- Lethargy or weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes, gums, or skin)
- Swollen abdomen (ascites)
- Neurologic signs such as disorientation, circling, or seizures (hepatic encephalopathy)
If you notice any of these changes, prompt veterinary attention is critical. Early intervention can prevent further damage and improve the prognosis.
These conditions are often complex, chronic, or resistant to initial treatment—and they can seriously impact your pet’s quality of life. That’s where I come in, providing advanced diagnostics, in-depth expertise, and collaborative care that supports both your pet and your primary veterinarian.
Give my office a call at 954-498-9656 to schedule a consultation or have your primary veterinarian refer your pet for advanced diagnostics and treatment.
Hepatology is the branch of veterinary internal medicine that focuses on the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas — collectively known as the hepatobiliary system. These organs play a critical role in your pet’s overall health, managing everything from digestion to detoxification. When these organs are not functioning properly, your dog or cat may experience a wide range of symptoms, from mild digestive upset to life-threatening illness.
Understanding hepatology helps pet owners recognize the signs of liver and gallbladder disease early and seek timely care. As a small animal internal medicine specialist, I am qualified to diagnose and treat these complex conditions using advanced diagnostics and treatment plans tailored to your pet.
How Veterinary Specialists Diagnose Liver & Gallbladder Problems
Diagnosing hepatobiliary disorders often requires advanced imaging and laboratory testing. As an internal medicine specialist I may recommend:
- Bloodwork: To evaluate type and extent of disease damage and liver function
- Urinalysis: To evaluate kidney and urinary tract involvement
- Abdominal Ultrasound: To visualize the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts in real time
- X-Rays: To assess liver size and detect masses
- CT Scan: For detailed cross-sectional imaging in complex cases
- Fine Needle Aspirate or Biopsy: To obtain tissue samples for microscopic evaluation and diagnosis.
These diagnostics help pinpoint the exact cause of your pet’s symptoms and guide a targeted treatment plan.
Importance of Ongoing Care
As an internal medicine specialist I provide continuity of care for pets with chronic or complex liver conditions. I adjust treatment as needed and working closely with your primary care veterinarian.
Treatment Options in Veterinary Hepatology
The treatment approach depends on the underlying condition but may include:
- Medications: Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, supportive medications based on symptoms.
- Dietary Management: Foods with specific alterations in protein and other nutrients.
- Surgery: To remove gallstones, the gallbladder, alleviate blockages, correct portosystemic shunts or obtain biopsy samples.
Many pets respond well to treatment and can go on to live full, happy lives with proper management.
As an Internal Medicine Specialist here’s how I can help.
My advanced training in internal organ systems and access to state-of-the-art diagnostic tools allow me to detect liver disorders early and create treatment strategies that protect long-term health.
Ready to Get Answers?
Have your primary veterinarian refer your pet for advanced diagnostics and treatment or contact my office at 954-498-9656 to schedule a consultation.
Liver & Pancreatic Health in Pets FAQ’s
What are the signs of liver disease in pets?
They are usually vague; some include vomiting, lethargy, changes in appetite or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
How do you evaluate liver disease in pets?
Bloodwork, imaging, and sometimes biopsy.
What is hepatic lipidosis in cats?
It is a serious fat accumulation in the liver, that can cause liver dysfunction or failure.
Can medications cause liver damage in pets?
Yes, some drugs are known to cause liver toxicity in pets.
What is a congenital portosystemic shunt and how is it treated?
An abnormal liver blood vessel treated surgically or medically.
Is a liver biopsy necessary for diagnosis?
In some cases, a biopsy is essential for definitive diagnosis.
What is cholangiohepatitis in cats?
An inflammatory liver and gall bladder condition.
What is a gallbladder mucocele?
When excessive mucus forms in the gallbladder, increasing the risk of gallbladder infection, damage or rupture.
Are there breeds more prone to liver conditions?
Yes. Certain breeds such as Dobermans, Yorkies and Labrador Retrievers.
Can supplements support liver health?
Yes. SAMe, milk thistle, among others may support liver health.
Are liver conditions reversible with treatment?
Some conditions improve with treatment, others require lifelong care.
If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms or you want to understand more, please
call Dr. Pollack’s office at 954-498-9656 to schedule a consultation.
To learn more about veterinary specialty medicine visit the ACVIM website.
Click on the form to download a pdf. Complete the form and email it to us at obviminfo@gmail.com
I’m Dr. Stefeny Pollack, here to help you care for your pet!
If you want to learn more about your pet’s persistant health issues described on my website,
call 954-498-9656 to schedule a consultation.
Please use the contact form for general inquiries.
PHONE
954-498-9656
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ADDRESS
2801 E Commercial Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308