B20. Dietetics of Liver Diseases (Dogs, Cats) Flashcards
1
Q
Function of liver
A
- Regulates most chemical in the blood and excretes bile
- Help carry away waste products
- Help with digestion and blood clotting
2
Q
Symptoms of liver disease
A
- Jaundice due to bilirubinemia
- GI symptoms; inappetence, vomiting and diarrhea, weight loss, PU/PD, change in faces color (depending on bile)
- Ascites caused by congestion
- Coagulopathies
- Hepatic encephalopathy would lead to neurological signs such as ataxia due to poor detoxification
3
Q
Parameters to check in the blood
A
Bile acids, ammonia, albumin, enzymes (gamma – GLDH), bilirubin
4
Q
Causes
A
o Congenital (PSS) or acquired (liver cirrhosis or congestion) shunts
o Viral canine hepatitis
o Leptospirosis
o Toxins (e.g. aflatoxins)
5
Q
Pathophys/problem?
A
Hepatic cells degenerated, not able to remove waste products/metabolites
6
Q
Aim of feeding
A
o Reduce the metabolic load o Support and restore liver functions o Avoid hepatic encephalopathy o Malnutrition (anorexia, vomitus, digestion decrease)
7
Q
Nutritional management
A
- Highly digestible feed: Short chain amino acids
- High energy in CHO form
- Give BV protein (Meat, poultry, fish, egg) but in very restricted amount (decrease to 13 – 16%)
- Prebiotics: Decrease ammonia that is absorbed and decrease work on liver.