Does jaundice in dogs or cats mean there is a liver problem?

Jaundice indicates elevated bilirubin in the body, which can be related to the liver, bile ducts, or haemolysis. Your vet will arrange blood tests and imaging to identify the cause and determine the appropriate course of action.

What tests are commonly done at the clinic to assess liver health?

Blood biochemistry is typically used to check liver enzymes, a complete blood count to assess infection or anaemia, and abdominal ultrasound to examine liver structure and check for abscess or masses.

How will the vet decide if hospitalisation is needed?

If your pet is experiencing persistent vomiting, dehydration, jaundice, or abnormal blood values, your vet may recommend hospitalisation for intravenous fluids, supportive care, and further testing. Follow your vet's advice on scheduling.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Canine & Feline Hepatitis and Liver Abscess: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]

Suppurative hepatitis and liver abscess are bacterial infections of the liver that can spread via the bile ducts or bloodstream. Long-term antibiotic treatment is required, and drainage may be needed in severe cases. Prompt treatment leads to a better prognosis.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Teaching Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Sudden, obvious yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums accompanied by refusal to eat
•Persistent vomiting with inability to eat or signs of significant dehydration
•Confusion, sudden collapse, or unresponsiveness

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Noticeably low energy or a sudden sharp decline in activity level
•Significantly reduced appetite or intermittent refusal to eat lasting more than one day
•Repeated vomiting or changes in stool color accompanied by weight loss

01What symptoms indicate a problem?

Early signs of hepatitis and liver abscess are often subtle. Common warning signs include changes in overall condition and gastrointestinal symptoms. Be especially alert if jaundice or persistent vomiting develops.

Lethargy and noticeably reduced activity
Loss of appetite or significantly reduced food intake
Frequent or intermittent episodes of vomiting
Diarrhoea or changes in bowel habits, with weight loss
Abnormal increase or decrease in drinking and urination
Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums (jaundice)

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Visible yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums
⚠️ Persistent vomiting preventing eating or causing obvious dehydration
⚠️ Confusion, disorientation, or sudden collapse

02How do I assess abnormalities at home? Key observations and emergency criteria

Keeping a detailed record of changes at home helps your vet quickly understand the progression of the condition and speeds up diagnosis.

Track changes in alertness and activity, noting when they occur
Record daily food intake, including complete refusal and the type of food offered
Count vomiting episodes and describe the vomit (colour, presence of blood)
Note stool colour, consistency, and any blood or mucus
Weigh your pet at the same time each week and track the trend
Film symptoms (gait, vomiting, breathing patterns) as a reference for your vet
If symptoms worsen or emergency signs appear, arrange a vet visit promptly

03How will the vet diagnose this condition? Common diagnostic tests

At the clinic, blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging are commonly used to assess liver function and structure. Cytology or bacterial culture may be needed to identify the source of infection.

Complete blood count (CBC) to assess infection or anaemia

Biochemistry panel to evaluate liver enzymes and metabolic abnormalities

Urinalysis to assess metabolic status and hydration

Abdominal ultrasound or X-ray to examine liver structure and lesions

Fine-needle aspirate or cytology to evaluate cell changes

Bacterial culture to identify the infecting organism and guide antibiotic selection

A specialist clinic with ultrasound and culture capabilities is recommended

04What treatment and care are needed after diagnosis? Medications, diet, and home care

Treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive care, with regular blood tests and imaging to monitor response and recovery.

Your vet will select appropriate antibiotics and supportive medications based on test results
Drainage or surgical intervention will be evaluated if necessary
Regular blood tests and biochemistry panels to track liver enzyme levels and treatment response
Transition to an easily digestible or prescription diet to aid recovery
Home care includes hydration support, rest, and symptom monitoring
Schedule follow-up visits and imaging as directed by your vet

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help your vet diagnose quickly

Prepare a timeline of when symptoms began and how they have changed (dates and frequency)

Bring a daily log of food intake, vomiting episodes, and bowel movements

List all current medications, supplements, and feeding details

Bring any previous test results or imaging (ultrasound/X-ray) if available

Film a short video of symptoms for the vet's reference (vomiting, jaundice, etc.)

Book in advance at a specialist clinic with ultrasound and bacterial culture capabilities

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.