Antibiotic Liver Treatment for Dogs

There are several liver treatment options that address specific liver problems in pets. The liver is a vital organ as it aids in metabolism, the production of bile and the filtration of toxins present in the body. Since the liver continues to function even if it's partially damaged, the symptoms of liver disease are generally noticed when the illness is in an advanced stage.

Causes of Liver Disease

There are several reasons why the liver stops functioning normally. Malnutrition, parasite infections, Cushing's disease, accidental damage to the liver, trauma, cancer and toxicity are some known causes that lead to liver problems. To slow down the progress of liver disease or to cure the condition, the vet will have to find out the underlying cause.

Since a damaged liver can regenerate cells if the body receives plenty of nutrition and support, liver disorders can often be treated if diagnosed in time.

Types of Liver Disorders Include:

  • Acute hepatic failure
  • Excess fat in the liver
  • Copper storage in the liver
  • Hepatitis 
  • Hepatic encephalopathy

Treatment of Liver Disorders

If the liver problem is associated with another condition, the vet will have to initiate treatment to cure the main condition. Since the liver has to metabolize different drugs, the vet will have to prescribe medicines in low potencies to avoid overworking the already damaged liver.

In some cases the vet will use medicines to bring relief from the symptoms of the liver problem, instead of prescribing strong drugs. Supportive care is also provided to pets that are debilitated. IV fluids may have to be administered to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance. Other treatment options include the administration of corticosteroids and antibiotics to treat conditions like chronic inflammation of the liver and hepatic encephalopathy.

Using Antibiotics to Treat Liver Disease

Antibiotics are used to kill bacterial infections in the pet's body. These drugs also kill bacteria that are known to produce ammonia in the body. The most commonly used antibiotic that's prescribed to dogs suffering from hepatic encephalopathy is neomycin. This medication belongs to a class of drugs termed as aminoglycosides. It's available as a veterinary formula known as Biosol.

Usage and Administration

The dosage of neomycin that should be administered varies according to the severity of liver disease present. If you're administering the drug at home, make sure you follow any given vet instructions. Since this drug is known to cause several side effects, kidney damage being the worst, you need to exert caution when administering it.

If your pet shows signs of any reactions to the drug such as facial hives or swelling, you should immediately seek medical help because your dog may have developed an allergic reaction to the drug.

Tips for Pet Owners

Apart from administering antibiotics or corticosteroids, you should feed your pet high quality food products. Avoid giving him foods that contain additives, artificial colors or flavors as the liver will have to work hard to eliminate these ingredients from the body. Give your pet a good source of protein and carbohydrates along with a source of essential fatty acids.

Liver disease should be diagnosed and treated promptly because it increases your dog's chance of recovery. You could also discuss the benefits of administering dietary supplements to your pet, to speed up recovery.

 

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