While gallbladder problems are not rare in dogs, some are partially related to the food our pets eat. Responsible pet owners want to learn about gallbladder problems, including how to prevent them and find the best treatment. The following article will cover some of the most common symptoms and treatments. Read on to learn more about gallbladder problems in dogs. Let’s get started! Inflammation of the gallbladder wall (mucocele), Overproduction of bile, and stones.
Mucocele is an inflammation of the gallbladder wall
A ruptured gallbladder in a dog can be very dangerous and may result in septic shock. If you suspect that your dog may have mucocele, consult your veterinarian right away. Urine tests, blood counts, cultures, and urinalysis can help your veterinarian diagnose your pooch’s condition. Medications are available to help manage the inflammation and prevent further complications, but in severe cases, surgery is recommended.
Because mucocele can lead to biliary obstruction, emergency surgery to remove the gallbladder is recommended. If mucocele leads to gallbladder rupture, the affected dog will need emergency surgery to remove the gallbladder. The surgery is usually complicated and requires intensive care and may require bacterial culture. Your dog may require lifelong medication or a special diet.
Stones can form in the gallbladder
A stone can form in the gallbladder in your dog for a variety of reasons. Some stones form because of an excess of mucus-like substances in the urine. The mucus reacts with the sharp crystals, and the stones grow. A complete obstruction will prevent your dog from urinating. Partially obstructed dogs will urinate once in a while, but they may not be able to urinate at all.
There are certain signs of cholecystitis, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The symptoms of this condition can also include a fever and a yellow tint to the skin, lips, and whites of the eyes. In severe cases, surgery is necessary. In the meantime, you must seek medical treatment immediately. If your dog develops any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Overproduction of bile
Dogs can develop gallbladder disease due to an overproduction of bile. Bile is a substance produced by the liver and is stored in the gallbladder. In some cases, it can overproduce bile, especially if it hasn’t been eaten for eight hours. Other causes include dietary problems, infections, or cancer. Symptoms of gallbladder disease include weight loss, fever, and abdominal pain.
Bile consists of cholesterol, bile acids, bilirubin, lecithin, and water. These substances are essential for digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Bile also contains various waste products, such as cholesterol, water, electrolytes, organic molecules, and bilirubin. However, when bile becomes sluggish, it can clog the gallbladder, which causes a painful condition known as cholecystitis. Bile can also become trapped in the gallbladder, leading to symptoms such as bloating, vomiting, and pain.
Inflammation of the gallbladder wall
Inflammation of the gallbladder is a common medical condition in dogs. There are different types of this condition. Acute gallbladder inflammation, or cholecystitis, is associated with a viral infection. Severe gallstone disease requires a combination of medical and surgical treatment. Acute cholecystitis is characterized by a white bile discharge and inflammation of the gallbladder wall.
Ultrasonography may show echogenic peritoneal fluid or decreased radiographic peritoneal detail. Ultrasonography may detect abnormal mucus collections or cysts in the gallbladder wall. Medical records were reviewed for dogs who had gallbladder inflammation. The study evaluated clinical signs, history, laboratory values, histopathologic findings, and radiographic imaging. Bacterial culture was also performed on 2 dogs. Mucoceles should be monitored closely for signs of wall necrosis or perforation.
Treatment options
Cholecystitis in dogs is a broad term that describes inflammation and dysfunction of the gallbladder. Different causes of the condition include infections, blunt abdominal trauma, cystic duct occlusion, and neoplasia. In dogs with mild cases, medication may be sufficient to alleviate symptoms. Moderate to severe cases may be accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, and anorexia.
Surgery for a ruptured gallbladder can be performed to remove the gallbladder and restore the gallbladder’s function. Surgery for gallbladder disease is a major procedure that requires an overnight stay in the hospital and strict monitoring. Gallstones may be removed with a stent or gallbladder removal. Antibiotics are often required for up to four weeks after surgery. Modern vets use laparoscopic surgery to perform gallbladder removal. This surgical procedure leaves dogs with a good chance of recovering from the operation.
