What are the common causes of liver fibrosis in dogs and cats?

Liver fibrosis in dogs and cats is often caused by an accumulation of factors including chronic inflammation, prolonged medication exposure, metabolic disorders, or chronic infections. The specific underlying cause must be determined by your vet through examination and testing.

How does a vet diagnose liver cirrhosis or fibrosis?

Your vet will use a combination of blood biochemistry, abdominal ultrasound, and — when necessary — hepatic cytology or biopsy. A liver biopsy is considered the gold standard for definitive diagnosis.

Can liver fibrosis be fully reversed?

When caught early and the underlying cause is controlled with appropriate treatment, some degree of liver function recovery is possible. However, advanced fibrosis or established cirrhosis is generally irreversible. Long-term monitoring and supportive care are needed to maintain quality of life.

How often are check-ups and follow-up visits typically needed?

Follow-up frequency depends on the severity of the condition. During acute or unstable phases, rechecks may be needed every 2–4 weeks. Once stable, blood tests and imaging are typically scheduled every 3–6 months. Always follow your vet's specific recommendations.

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

Liver Cirrhosis & Fibrosis in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Tests & Care [2025]

Liver cirrhosis and fibrosis are the result of chronic liver damage. Identifying the underlying cause and providing supportive treatment — including dietary management and medication — can help slow progression and relieve symptoms.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap editorial team

Sources: WSAVA, AVMA, Taiwan Society of Veterinary Internal Medicine

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Unresponsive for a prolonged period or unable to be roused
•Persistent or frequent seizures that cannot be controlled
•Continuous vomiting with inability to take in water, or obvious dehydration

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

•Markedly reduced appetite lasting more than two days
•Persistent, noticeable yellowing of the skin or gums
•Ongoing soft stool or diarrhea accompanied by low energy

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in dogs and cats often present as chronic, non-specific systemic illness. Early symptoms can be subtle but tend to worsen gradually over time.

Persistent lethargy and noticeably reduced activity levels
Decreased appetite or refusal to eat for several days, with gradual weight loss
Repeated vomiting or inability to eat and drink normally
Ongoing diarrhoea or loose stools, possibly with signs of dehydration
Jaundice — yellowing of the skin, inner ears, or gums
Seek prompt attention if seizures, confusion, or marked behavioural changes occur

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Unresponsive for an extended period or impossible to rouse
⚠️ Continuous or frequent seizures that cannot be controlled
⚠️ Repeated vomiting preventing any fluid intake, or signs of severe dehydration

02How to monitor at home and decide when to go to the emergency clinic

Careful home observation and detailed records help your vet assess the condition and gauge how quickly it is progressing. Bring your notes to every appointment.

Note when changes in energy and activity began and how they have progressed
Record daily food intake, water consumption, and any episodes of refusing to eat
Log the frequency, timing, contents, and any presence of blood in vomiting episodes
Watch for changes in stool colour and consistency, and note any black or bloody stools
Observe urine output and any difficulty urinating, and record any changes
Use your phone to photograph or video symptoms such as jaundice or vomiting to show your vet

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

At the clinic, diagnosis begins with a physical examination followed by blood tests and imaging. Sampling (biopsy or cytology) may be needed to confirm the cause and stage of disease.

Full physical examination to assess overall condition and check for ascites (fluid in the abdomen)

Blood biochemistry and complete blood count to evaluate liver enzymes and clotting function

Abdominal ultrasound to assess liver size, structure, and any lesions

Hepatic cytology or liver biopsy to confirm the diagnosis

Advanced imaging (CT) if needed to evaluate complex lesions or rule out metastasis

Referral to a veterinary hospital with hepatology expertise is recommended for thorough assessment

04Treatment and home care after diagnosis: medications, diet, and management

Treatment is typically multi-modal, combining medication, dietary adjustments, and regular monitoring to slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

A tailored medication plan with scheduled follow-up appointments
Transition to a specialised hepatic prescription diet with optimised nutritional support
Regular blood tests to monitor liver enzymes, electrolytes, and clotting function
Ultrasound or other imaging every few months to track changes in the liver
Watch for medication side effects and contact your vet promptly if any concerns arise
Long-term follow-up at a veterinary hospital experienced in hepatic disease is strongly recommended

05What to prepare before your vet visit: key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Write down when symptoms first appeared and summarise how they have changed day by day

Record daily food intake, water consumption, and toileting habits

Bring photos or videos of vomit, stools, or other symptoms (or samples if available)

Prepare a list of all current medications, supplements, and health products

Bring any previous blood test results or imaging reports for comparison

Consider calling ahead to book an appointment at a clinic experienced in hepatic conditions

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.

Related Symptoms (You May Also Be Looking For)

Abdominal fluid

Yellow skin/eyes

Skin inflammation

Difficulty defecating

Anorexia

Loss of appetite

Hemorrhage

Severe bleeding