Liver health plays a crucial role in the overall health of any animal and, as a responsible pet parent, it is important to understand the role of the liver in your pet’s body. The liver has many functions, including activation and inactivation of hormones, protection of the pancreas,  detoxification, digestion, and the production of bile. In this article, we will discuss the importance of good liver health in pets and how it can affect their overall well-being.

What is the liver and what does it do?

The liver is the largest and heaviest complex organ in the body and is responsible for several important functions. It acts as a filter, removing toxins from the blood and breaking down drugs, chemicals, and other substances that can harm the body. The liver also produces bile, which is essential for the digestion of fat and the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the liver helps to regulate the levels of glucose and other nutrients in the bloodstream, and it is involved in the production of hormones and other important substances.

Why is good liver health important for pets?

Detoxification: A healthy liver is essential for the effective removal of toxins from the body and even storage of some toxins while awaiting removal. When the liver is not functioning properly, toxins can build up in the body, leading to a range of health issues such as abdominal swelling, listlessness, digestive issues, skin problems, and in extreme cases convulsions.

Digestion: The liver produces bile, which is essential for the digestion of fat and the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. When the liver is not functioning properly, the digestive process can be disrupted, leading to poor nutrition and a range of digestive problems.

Hormonal regulation: The liver is involved in the production of hormones and other important substances, such as blood-clotting factors. With the liver under duress, hormone levels can become imbalanced.

Glucose regulation: The liver helps to regulate the levels of glucose and other nutrients in the bloodstream. When the liver is not functioning properly, glucose levels can become imbalanced, which can lead to conditions such as diabetes. 

How to support liver health in pets

Proper Nutrition: A healthy diet is essential for good liver health. Feed your pet a balanced, nutritious diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Avoid feeding your pet high-fat diets, particularly when the liver is ill, and choose foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Toxins: Our pets can be exposed to many toxins in their daily lives. From the chemicals in your furniture covers, curtains and carpet through pesticides, to administered drugs, to household cleaners or even home fragrances, many substances in daily use can harm the liver. Check labels carefully  and always follow the label instructions when administering medications.

Exercise: Regular exercise is important for overall health, so encourage your pet to be active and engage in physical activity on a daily basis.

Regular Vet Check-Ups: Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help detect liver problems early on, before they become more serious. Your veterinarian can also provide advice on how to best support your pet’s liver health.

Natural Support for a Healthy Liver: HomeoPet’s natural Liver Rescue medicine can help promote good liver function in animals of all ages and can help support the removal of toxins in dogs, cats and other animals. Safe, gentle, and easy to dose, Liver Rescue has no known side effects and can be safely used long term.

When to give HomeoPet Liver Rescue

Liver Rescue is a fantastic addition to any veterinary first aid kit. Whether you are dosing your pet with a conventional chemical de-worming product, they’re receiving medication prescribed by your veterinarian, or are possibly exposed to toxins in their environment that you just can’t avoid, gentle support from HomeoPet Liver Rescue can help to support the liver in such times of extra stress and help it to continue to do its job of detoxifying the body effectively and efficiently. One example where HomeoPet Liver Rescue can routinely help is in the recovery post anaesthesia. Another is during and after drug administration especially in the case of antibiotics where it can be combined with Aloe Vera juice (ideally organic), probiotics, and digestive enzymes to help restore normal digestive function.

Good liver health is essential for overall pet health and well-being. By providing your pet with proper nutrition, avoiding toxins, encouraging exercise, visiting your vet regularly and providing natural support when needed, you can help support your pet’s liver health and ensure that they remain healthy and happy for years to come.

Do you have any questions? Let us know in the comments, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.  

This article was vet approved by Tom Farrington MRCVS., MVB., VetMFHom. Chief Veterinary Medical Advisor for HomeoPet. Tom has been a practicing veterinarian in Ireland for over 35 years and employs complementary therapies in a multi discipline approach to healing medicine. Tom is an honors veterinarian, holds advanced degrees in homeopathic medicine, lectures internationally and leads clinical research teams.