What tests are usually needed to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma in dogs and cats?

Common tests include blood work (liver enzymes and coagulation function), abdominal ultrasound, and when necessary, cytology or tissue biopsy for pathological confirmation. Advanced imaging such as CT or MRI may be used to assess the extent of the disease.

What is the prognosis for a pet found to have a liver mass?

Prognosis varies widely depending on tumour size, whether there is metastasis, and whether complete resection is possible. Pets whose tumours can be surgically removed at an early stage generally have a better prognosis. Discuss the individual case and follow-up plan with your vet.

What are the treatment options? Is surgery always necessary?

Treatment options include surgical resection, supportive care, and other therapies considered on a case-by-case basis. Whether surgery is needed depends on the tumour's location, size, and the pet's overall health, and must be determined after veterinary assessment.

What information should owners prepare before the appointment to help the vet?

It is recommended to write down when symptoms started and how they have changed, keep a daily log of food intake and bowel movements, list all medications and supplements, and bring any videos or previous blood and imaging reports. This helps the vet work more efficiently.

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

Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Imaging & Treatment [2025]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant liver tumour in dogs and cats. The massive solitary form carries the best prognosis; complete surgical resection can achieve long-term survival. The diffuse form has a poorer prognosis and requires early detection and treatment.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVIM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek emergency care immediately

•Persistent severe vomiting with inability to eat for more than several hours
•Obvious yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums that is progressively worsening
•Sudden severe weakness with inability to stand or brief loss of consciousness

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Noticeably reduced appetite persisting for two to three days with impact on body weight
•Persistent or recurring vomiting while still able to drink water
•Gradually enlarging abdomen or a clearly palpable abdominal mass

01What Symptoms Indicate Something Is Wrong?

Hepatocellular carcinoma in dogs and cats often presents with non-specific symptoms early on, which may gradually worsen or develop into signs related to declining liver function.

Lethargy, reduced activity levels, and less interaction with people or other pets
Weakness and reluctance to play or exercise
Reduced appetite or pickiness, with a noticeable change in food intake
Intermittent or recurring vomiting and diarrhoea
Progressive weight or muscle loss, with a visibly thinner appearance
Jaundice (yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums) warrants prompt attention
Abdominal distension or a palpable abdominal mass requires urgent veterinary assessment

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ If obvious jaundice or rapid abdominal swelling develops, seek veterinary evaluation as soon as possible.

02How to Assess the Situation at Home: What to Watch and When to Go to the Emergency Vet

Recording specific daily changes helps your vet understand the condition quickly and prioritise the right tests.

Track daily changes in energy and activity levels, noting when changes occur
Record daily food intake, whether your pet eats voluntarily, and any changes in preferences
Note the frequency, timing, and appearance of vomit (including any blood)
Observe bowel movement frequency, stool colour, and consistency for any changes
Weigh your pet weekly, record the trend, and save the data or photos
Use your phone to film your pet's movement or abdominal appearance to show the vet
If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange a specialist or further diagnostic evaluation

03How Will the Vet Diagnose This? Common Diagnostic Tests

The vet will combine findings from physical examination, blood tests, imaging, and pathology to evaluate the extent of liver disease and available treatment options.

Physical examination

abdominal palpation and overall body condition assessment

Blood tests

evaluation of liver enzymes, coagulation profile, and complete blood count

Abdominal ultrasound

assessment of hepatic nodules, liver size, and blood flow

Cytology or tissue biopsy

collection of samples for pathological confirmation

CT or MRI

evaluation of lesion extent and potential metastasis

Referral to a specialist hospital with advanced imaging or surgical capabilities when needed

04How to Treat and Care for Your Pet After Diagnosis: Medications, Diet, and Care Guide

Treatment goals include symptom control, slowing disease progression, and regular monitoring; the follow-up plan will be tailored to each individual case.

Discuss with your vet whether surgical resection or other treatments are the primary approach based on the condition
Administer medications as directed, monitor for side effects, and report any abnormalities to your vet
Modify the diet to reduce liver workload and track appetite and weight changes
Schedule regular imaging follow-ups after surgery or treatment to monitor disease progression
Conduct regular blood tests to monitor liver function and overall health
Return to the vet promptly or seek specialist evaluation if symptoms change or recurrence is suspected

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help Your Vet Work Faster

Write down when symptoms began, how they have changed, and how frequently they occur

Record daily food intake, frequency and details of vomiting, and bowel movements

List all current medications, supplements, and their doses

Film or photograph your pet's behaviour, gait, and abdominal appearance

Bring any previous blood test results, imaging reports, or pathology findings

Consider booking at a clinic with in-house imaging and pathology 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.