What causes hypoalbuminemia in dogs and cats?

Low albumin can result from several causes, including protein-losing enteropathy, impaired liver function, or protein loss through the kidneys. Blood tests and imaging are needed to identify the most likely source — speak to your vet for a thorough work-up.

What tests will the vet run to confirm low albumin?

Common tests include a biochemistry panel (albumin and total protein), abdominal ultrasound or X-rays, and further blood work or biopsy if needed. These help the vet determine the probable cause and plan next steps.

What observations at home can help the vet assess my pet?

At home, note when symptoms began, weigh your pet daily, track food and water intake, and take photos or videos of the abdomen and movement. This information helps the vet understand the progression and arrange the right tests 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

Hypoalbuminemia in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]

Hypoalbuminemia can be caused by liver disease, kidney disease, intestinal disorders, or blood loss. It leads to tissue swelling and fluid accumulation. Finding and treating the underlying cause — along with nutritional support — is key.

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 immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Persistent rapid breathing or obvious open-mouth panting
•Sudden inability to stand or ongoing confusion
•Rapid and obvious abdominal enlargement or bloating

Schedule a veterinary visit as soon as possible (within 24-72 hours)

•Persistent loss of appetite or significant weight loss
•Reduced activity, often lying down and reluctant to move
•Obvious localized or generalized swelling

01What symptoms suggest something is wrong?

In dogs and cats, hypoalbuminemia most commonly presents as swelling or abdominal distension, accompanied by reduced energy and appetite changes.

Visible localised or generalised swelling (fluid under the skin)
Distended or soft abdomen with a fluid-wave sensation on palpation
Noticeably lower energy — less interest in play or tires easily
Changes in appetite or rapid unexplained weight loss
Faster breathing or heart rate, or obvious difficulty moving
If swelling or abdominal distension is spreading, seek veterinary assessment soon

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ If your pet shows difficulty breathing, sudden inability to stand, or rapidly worsening abdominal swelling, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

02How to monitor at home — and when to head to the vet

Keeping a home record of key changes helps your vet assess the situation quickly and plan appropriate tests.

Note when symptoms first appeared and how they have progressed (when did swelling start?)
Weigh your pet at the same time each day and track the trend
Take photos or short videos of the abdomen and movement, from both the side and front
Record appetite, water intake, and toileting habits (including urine and stool appearance)
If you notice obvious rapid breathing or lethargy, arrange a vet visit without delay

03How will the vet diagnose this? Common tests explained

The vet will primarily use blood tests and imaging to identify the likely cause of low albumin.

Physical examination

assessing swelling distribution, abdominal palpation, and vital signs

Blood tests

measuring albumin, total protein, and liver and kidney function markers

X-ray / ultrasound

checking for fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen and organ abnormalities

Advanced imaging (CT)

clarifying complex or deep-seated changes when needed

Biopsy, fine-needle aspirate, or bacterial culture

to identify the underlying cause when indicated

04Treatment and home care: medication, diet, and recovery

Treatment focuses on stabilising fluid and blood protein status, followed by addressing the underlying cause and long-term monitoring.

Fluid support or other stabilising measures to address fluid balance and blood protein levels
Dietary adjustments: high-quality protein sources, with salt restriction if appropriate
Your vet will advise whether further medication or surgical intervention is needed
Regular recheck appointments to monitor blood values and weight
Home care: ensure adequate rest and continue monitoring food, water intake, and toileting

05What to prepare before the appointment — helping the vet pinpoint the cause

Note when symptoms started, how they have changed, and who first noticed them

List daily food intake, water consumption, and toileting records (including any signs of fluid in the abdomen)

Bring recent weight records or weighing data showing a multi-day trend

Prepare a list of current medications, supplements, and any known allergies

Bring any previous imaging or test reports from earlier visits

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.

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