Jaundice in dogs is a serious condition that can be hard to spot. It happens when a dog’s skin, gums, and eyes turn yellow.
This post will look at jaundice in dogs, what can cause jaundice, the types of jaundice, symptoms your dog may experience, how it is diagnosed, and treatment options available.
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Related: Gallbladder Disease In Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Disclaimer: This post is meant to be informative and should not be taken as medical advice. Talk to your veterinarian regarding any health concerns you may have for your dog.
What Is Jaundice In Dogs?
Jaundice in dogs is a condition where the skin, gums, and eyes take on a yellow tint. This happens when there’s too much bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made when red blood cells break down.
Jaundice is not a disease itself, but a sign of other health problems. In addition to your dog’s skin, gums, and the whites of their eyes turning yellow, it can also show up on their ear flaps and other body parts.
In dogs with dark fur or skin, jaundice can be harder to spot. Check the gums and the whites of the eyes for the best chance of seeing it.
Jaundice is always a serious sign. If you see it in your dog, take them to the veterinarian right away.
What Causes Jaundice In Dogs?
Many things can cause jaundice in dogs. Some common causes are:
- Liver disease.
- Problems with the gallbladder or bile ducts.
- Destruction of red blood cells.
- Some types of cancer.
- Certain infections.
- Poisoning.
The liver plays a big role in jaundice. It’s the organ that processes bilirubin. When the liver isn’t working right, bilirubin builds up in the blood.
Blood problems can also lead to jaundice. If red blood cells break down too fast, it can overwhelm the liver’s ability to process bilirubin.
What Are The Types Of Jaundice In Dogs?
There are three main types of jaundice in dogs:
- Pre-hepatic jaundice: This happens when too many red blood cells break down. It’s often caused by immune system problems or infections.
- Hepatic jaundice: This type is due to liver disease. The liver can’t process bilirubin properly.
- Post-hepatic jaundice: This occurs when there’s a blockage in the bile ducts. Bile can’t flow out of the liver, causing a backup of bilirubin.
Each type of jaundice has different causes and treatments. Your veterinarian will need to do tests to figure out which type your dog has.
What Are Symptoms Of Jaundice In Dogs?
Jaundice in dogs causes visible yellowing and other symptoms.
You may notice yellow tinting of your dog’s skin, gums, and eyes. This yellowing often shows up first in the whites of the eyes and inside the ears. The gums and tongue can also take on a yellow hue.
Other signs include:
- Dark urine.
- Pale, clay-colored stools.
- Lethargy and weakness.
- Loss of appetite.
- Weight loss.
- Vomiting.
- Fever.
Your dog may also seem itchy or have belly pain. Watch for changes in thirst and urination habits too.
How Is Jaundice In Dogs Diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will do a full exam and run tests to find out why your dog has jaundice. Common tests include:
- Blood work to check liver enzymes and bilirubin levels.
- Urinalysis to look for bilirubin in urine.
- Ultrasound or x-rays to see the liver and gallbladder.
- Bile acid test to check liver function.
In some cases, your vet may take a small liver sample (biopsy) for testing. This gives more information but is also more invasive.
The test results help pinpoint the cause, which guides treatment.
How Is Jaundice In Dogs Treated?
Treating jaundice in dogs focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms. The approach depends on the specific condition causing the yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Medical Treatments
Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics if an infection is causing jaundice.
For liver problems, medications to support liver function could help.
If red blood cell destruction is the issue, your dog might need immunosuppressive drugs.
In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove gallstones or tumors blocking bile ducts.
Blood transfusions can help if your dog has severe anemia.
Fluid therapy is often used to prevent dehydration and support organ function.
Your veterinarian might also give vitamin K injections if there are clotting issues.
Always follow your vet’s instructions carefully when giving any medications. Don’t stop treatment early, even if your dog seems better.
Dietary Management
Your veterinarian may recommend changes to your dog’s diet to help manage jaundice. A low-fat, easily digestible diet is often suggested for dogs with liver issues. You might need to feed smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stress on the digestive system.
In some cases, your vet may prescribe special liver support diets. These foods are designed to be gentle on the liver and provide key nutrients. Always introduce new foods slowly to avoid stomach upset.
Supportive Care
Supportive care is important in helping your dog recover from jaundice. Make sure your dog has a quiet, comfortable place to rest. Limit activity as directed by your vet to allow for healing.
Keep fresh water available at all times. Your dog may need help staying hydrated. In some cases, you might need to use a syringe to give water.
Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor your dog’s progress. Your vet may need to do blood tests to check liver function and other values.
Are There Any At-Home Treatments For Jaundice?
While there are no at-home treatments for jaundice, as the condition needs veterinary care, there are things you can do at home to support your dog.
- Keep your dog’s environment clean and stress-free.
- Follow your vet’s dietary advice closely.
- You can gently clean any yellow discharge from your dog’s eyes or skin. Use a soft, damp cloth and be careful not to irritate the area.
- Watch for signs that your dog is getting worse, like not eating or seeming very tired.
- Call your vet right away if you notice any new symptoms.
Prevention And Management
Preventing jaundice in dogs involves proactive care and monitoring. Managing the condition requires ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments to support your dog’s health.
Preventing Jaundice
Keep your dog up-to-date on vaccinations to protect against infectious diseases that can lead to jaundice. Avoid exposing your pup to toxins and harmful substances.
Feed a balanced diet that supports liver health. Talk to your veterinarian about foods and supplements that may benefit your dog’s liver function.
Schedule regular check-ups with your vet. Early detection of underlying issues can prevent jaundice from developing.
Watch for signs of illness in your dog. Seek veterinary care right away if you notice any changes in appetite, energy, or behavior.
Long-term Management
Work with your vet to create a treatment plan for the underlying cause of jaundice. This may include medications, dietary changes, or other therapies.
Provide a low-stress environment for your dog. Stress can worsen liver problems and slow recovery.
Monitor your dog’s condition closely. Look for improvements or setbacks in symptoms like yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums.
Follow your vet’s recommendations for follow-up visits and tests. These help track your dog’s progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Jaundice in dogs is a very serious condition and is often the sign of other health issues your dog is experiencing. If you notice any yellowing of your dog’s eyes, skin, or gums, see your veterinarian right away.
For more information on jaundice in dogs, please see PetMD, VCA Animal Hospitals, American Kennel Club, and Merck Veterinary Manual.
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