Fatty Liver Disease in Dogs: What to Know

Fatty liver disease, also called hepatic lipidosis, involves excess fat building up in the liver and interfering with its work. In dogs it may occur alongside poor appetite, sudden weight loss, obesity, diabetes or another illness. A dog may seem quiet, vomit, drink differently, develop yellow gums or eyes, or lose interest in food.

These signs are not specific, and a dog with similar symptoms may have a different problem. A veterinarian may use an examination, blood tests and abdominal ultrasound to assess the liver and look for an underlying cause. Do not rely on appearance alone.

Contact a veterinarian promptly if your dog is eating much less or refusing food. Offer the food recommended by the veterinary team in small, manageable portions, and follow instructions about medicines, fluids and monitoring. Avoid sudden dieting, force-feeding or human supplements unless specifically directed.

Keep notes on food and water intake, vomiting, stools, energy, weight changes and the colour of the gums or eyes. Treatment focuses on restoring adequate nutrition and addressing the trigger, which may involve a tailored diet, medication or management of diabetes and other disease.

Seek emergency veterinary help for collapse, repeated vomiting, severe weakness, seizures, confusion, yellowing, a swollen painful abdomen, or inability to keep food or water down. Arrange same-day advice when appetite falls, even if your dog is still drinking, because ongoing poor intake can worsen liver stress.

What could be reducing my dog’s appetite? Which blood tests or ultrasound are needed? What food and feeding schedule should I use, and how will we monitor liver function and hydration?