What is canine infectious hepatitis?

Canine infectious hepatitis is a disease caused by canine adenovirus infection. Common signs include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, and jaundice. If you have concerns, consult your vet.

What initial observations can I make at home?

Record when symptoms started, body temperature, frequency of vomiting and diarrhoea, and stool colour. Take videos or photos for your vet's reference. Seek veterinary care promptly if needed.

How can canine infectious hepatitis be prevented?

Regular vaccination and minimising contact with unknown dogs are the main preventive measures. Maintain good hygiene and isolate animals that appear unwell. Consult your vet for details.

What tests are typically done at the clinic?

Common tests include a complete blood count, blood biochemistry panel, urinalysis, and abdominal imaging. Virology testing or liver cytology may also be performed depending on the vet's assessment.

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 Infectious Hepatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment [2025]

Canine infectious hepatitis is caused by canine adenovirus type 1 and can lead to acute liver injury. Vaccination is highly effective at prevention; treatment focuses on supportive care. Regular vaccination is the best protection.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistent collapse, unable to stand or lift head on their own
•Obvious yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums (severe jaundice)
•Sustained high fever accompanied by frequent vomiting and a marked decline in alertness

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

•Significant loss of appetite for more than one day, accompanied by lethargy
•Repeated vomiting or continuous diarrhea, but still able to drink water
•Rapidly declining activity level but still able to respond briefly to people or surroundings

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Early canine infectious hepatitis often presents with lethargy and gastrointestinal signs. Monitor closely for changes and watch for signs of jaundice or collapse.

Persistent lethargy with noticeably reduced activity
Decreased appetite or refusal to eat for more than a day
Repeated vomiting, frequent or in large volume
Soft or loose stools, sometimes with mucus or blood
Abnormal body temperature (fever or chills)
Obvious weakness or tendency to lie down for extended periods

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Persistent collapse — unable to stand or lift the head
⚠️ Obvious yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums
⚠️ Sustained high fever accompanied by frequent vomiting and a markedly worsening condition

02How to assess the situation at home? Key things to monitor and when to seek emergency care

Observing and recording key information at home helps your vet quickly assess the condition and arrange the necessary tests.

Note when symptoms started and track daily changes
Measure body temperature and record the reading and time
Record the frequency, timing, and characteristics of vomiting
Record stool frequency, colour, and presence of blood or mucus
Observe and record changes in appetite and water intake
Use your phone to video vomiting episodes, gait problems, or changes in alertness for your vet

03How will the vet diagnose this? Common diagnostic tests

After arrival, the vet will conduct a comprehensive assessment including blood tests and imaging to evaluate liver function and overall condition.

Complete blood count (CBC)

checks for signs of infection or anaemia

Blood biochemistry panel

evaluates liver enzymes, bilirubin, and electrolytes

Urinalysis

assesses kidney function and metabolic changes

Abdominal ultrasound or X-ray

examines liver size and abdominal structures

Liver cytology or biopsy may be performed if further evaluation is needed

Virology testing or immune-related assays may be arranged as appropriate

04How is this treated and managed after diagnosis? Medications, dietary adjustments, and care guide

Treatment focuses on supportive care combined with regular blood test monitoring and clinical assessment; referral or advanced treatment may be arranged if needed.

Control clinical signs with antiemetics, fluid therapy, and supportive medications, and monitor the response
Feed a highly digestible, low-fat therapeutic diet to reduce the burden on the liver
Schedule short-term follow-up visits to track symptom changes and clinical improvement
Repeat blood biochemistry tests as directed by the vet to monitor liver function
Ensure adequate hydration at home and provide a quiet, warm resting environment
If the condition worsens or does not improve, referral to a specialist or hospital for further evaluation is recommended

05What should I prepare before the vet visit? Key information to help the vet identify the cause quickly

Compile a detailed record of when symptoms started and how they have changed

Prepare a log of feeding and elimination over the past 48 hours (times and frequency)

List all current medications, vaccinations, or supplements

Bring any previous test reports or imaging for comparison (if available)

Bring a small fresh stool or vomit sample for testing if possible

Call the clinic ahead to confirm the intake process and whether an appointment is required

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.