Does Your Vet Think Your Dog Has A Liver Tumor? What To Expect
If your dog has been acting out of sorts lately and you take them to the veterinarian for tests, you may be surprised to learn that your dog might have a liver tumor. Through blood work and/or an x-ray, your vet may be able to discern the possibility of a liver tumor. The question you likely have is, "What now?" Get to know some of what you can expect when your veterinarian suspects your dog has a liver tumor. Then, you can be better prepared for the process and can be sure you are there to care for and support your dog along the way.
Expect to Probably Have a Pet CT Scan Done
Many people do not know that pets can have many of the same types of diagnostic tests as humans. One of those tests is a CT scan. Pet CT scans are quite common when issues like tumors arise.
This is because pet CT scans create a three-dimensional (3D) image of the affected organ or area of the body. This allows the veterinarian to get a full look at any tumor that may have developed as well as how it relates to other surrounding organs and blood vessels.
A pet CT scan can help to determine what the next course of action may be for your dog's liver tumor and will give the veterinarian (and you) a full idea of what is going on inside of your dog's body. This is an important step that should not be skipped.
Expect the Possibility of Surgery
Depending on the precise size and location of the liver tumor, your veterinarian may suggest that surgery is the best option for your dog and their liver tumor. If the tumor is surgically removable, removing it may help your dog's symptoms and overall health.
Additionally, the tissue of the tumor can then be biopsied to determine if it is malignant (cancerous) or not. This will also affect the course of treatment you may need to go through with your dog.
Expect to Change Your Dog's Diet
There are special foods that dogs can be put on to support liver health and well-being. Whether your dog has surgery for their liver tumor or not, you can expect that your veterinarian will suggest a liver-friendly and supportive diet for your dog from now on.
This often involves prescription food that you get directly from a veterinarian. The food will be lower in fat than some other foods while also providing extra nutrients that can be lacking when the liver is malfunctioning.
Now that you know more of what to expect when your vet thinks your dog has a liver tumor, you can be better prepared for the situation and what is to come. Visit a clinic like South Seattle Veterinary Hospital that offers pet CT scans for more information.
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