naturalpet
Liver and Adrenal Issues Share Symptoms
DETECTING DISEASE
by Dr. Shawn Messonnier A
drenal and liver diseases can commonly plague pets, with adrenal problems occurring more often in dogs but routinely misdiagnosed, and liver disease
more frequently present in cats.
Liver Disease This inclusive term is used to describe any disorder of the liver. In both dogs and cats, common causes include toxins, infections, metabolic problems and tumors. In cats, infections and fatty liver disease are more likely, while dogs more often experience infections and tumors. Clini- cally affected pets are usually anorectic (not eating) and
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lethargic; in severe cases, jaundice may occur. Conventional therapies depend to some extent on the cause, but in general, antibiotics and hospitalization for fluid therapy and forced feeding, often through a stomach tube, are necessary to give the pet the best chances of recovering. Pets with liver cancer are usually diagnosed too late to be a candidate for surgery, unless only one liver lobe is involved, or chemotherapy. More gentle natural therapy often results in curing the
condition, even in later stages, depending upon the root cause. The herb milk thistle is well known for its ability to heal liver damage. B vitamins, as well as the nutritional supplements comprising S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and phosphatidylcholine, may also be effective treatments.
Adrenal Disease
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Ask the owner. Ask the dog. Common Dog Stress Signals: Lip Licking Turning Away Half Moon Eyes Yawning Mouth Closed Shaking Off
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34 San Diego Edition
Adrenal issues, especially common in middle-aged and older canines, can refer to Addison’s disease or Cushing’s disease— signifying decreased or increased adrenal function, respec- tively—and are commonly misdiagnosed as liver disease. Addison’s disease, although not prevalent, is often incorrectly diagnosed because its symptoms of reduced appetite, vomiting, diarrhea and weakness are shared with most other diseases. Blood testing can be helpful, but is not always definitive. Cushing’s disease is a more common problem. Signs mimic diabetes and kidney disease, including increases in appetite, thirst and urination. Accurate diagnosis requires specialized blood tests and abdominal sonograms. Conventional treatment for either disease involves lifelong medication. Natural therapies that work to prevent and alleviate such ailments may involve adrenal glandular supplements, milk thistle and herbs such as licorice (for Ad-
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