Question
My diabetic dog has high liver enzymes.
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
High liver enzymes on a blood test can sound frightening, but they don't mean liver failure on their own. Your vet reads them alongside his symptoms, medicines and other tests, and diabetes can raise some of them too. Ask what the results show and what happens next. Don't start a liver supplement or change his food before the vet has explained it.
What to know at home
Each enzyme tells the vet something different, and some go up because of medicines or problems outside the liver. Ask which result worries them, and what a repeat test or scan would help find out.
What to write down
- The complete report and previous results
- Medicines and supplements
- Appetite, vomiting, energy and any yellowing of eyes or gums
What to ask next
Ask what needs checking again and how soon. If your dog is unwell, won't eat or is vomiting, call the vet now rather than waiting for the next blood test.
Sources
- My dog has diabetes and Cushing's. How does that work?How Cushing's and diabetes are treated together
- What tests confirm diabetes, and what do the results mean?What the blood tests show
- Will steroids or other medicines affect my dog's diabetes?How medicines can affect results
- How often does a diabetic dog need vet check-ups?How often he needs vet check-ups
- When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?Signs that need a vet the same day
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My dog has diabetes and Cushing's. How does that work?
Yes, a dog can have both, and your vet will treat them as one plan.
Q&A
When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?
If he's weak, trembling, collapsing, vomiting or won't eat, call your vet now. Read the rest later.
Q&A
What should I write in a notebook for my diabetic dog?
Food, mood, water, injection times and your questions. Keep it short.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.