Yesterday, a 5 year old Labrador bitch came in to the surgery after having been vomiting for a few days at home. Examination of the mucous membranes (the gums and areas under the eyelids) revealed a yellowish tinge. This is an indication of "jaundice" and generally reflects some underlying liver related disease. Blood tests confirmed that the liver had in fact been quite badly damaged and the resultant build up of waste products in the animal's body were having a detrimental effect.
We started treatment immediately including intravenous fluids and by today she was greatly improved and has started eating well again and is no longer vomiting. Although treatment will need to continue for a week or more, she seems to be on the road to recovery.
Below is an example of a jaundice dog
Symptoms to watch out for in your own pets are
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Increase drinking and urination
- Lethargic
- Jaundice
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
If you are worried about any of the above it is important to take your pet to the vet as these symptoms can also be related to other medical conditions.