Understanding jaundice in dogs: causes, signs & treatment

Dogs exhibit a wide variety of coat colours and patterns, but yellow skin or mucous membranes is never normal. This yellowing, known as jaundice, demands prompt veterinary attention as it signals a serious underlying health problem.

This comprehensive article guides you through recognising jaundice in dogs, understanding its diverse causes, and acting swiftly to protect your pet’s health.

What is jaundice in dogs?

Jaundice, or icterus, manifests as yellowing of the mucous membranes such as the gums, whites of the eyes, and nostrils. In severe cases, the dog’s skin itself may appear yellowish.

This occurs because of elevated levels of bilirubin, a yellow pigmented substance formed when red blood cells break down. When the body cannot clear bilirubin efficiently, it accumulates in the bloodstream and tissues.

High bilirubin levels are not merely cosmetic; they are toxic and can damage vital organs including the liver, kidneys, and brain, sometimes causing irreversible harm.

How to recognise jaundice in your dog

Because most dogs are covered in fur, jaundice is often first noticed in areas where skin or mucous membranes are visible. Regularly check your dog’s gums by gently lifting its lip; healthy gums should be pink, not yellow.

The whites of your dog’s eyes and inside its nostrils are also trustworthy places to spot early yellowing.

If you observe any yellow tint, this is a warning sign that immediate veterinary assessment is essential. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes significantly.

What causes jaundice in dogs?

Jaundice is a symptom arising from excess bilirubin in the bloodstream, caused by problems in one or more of three stages:

1. Prehepatic (before the liver): Excessive destruction of red blood cells (haemolysis) creates more bilirubin than the liver can process. Causes include immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia or blood parasites.
2. Hepatic (liver dysfunction): Liver diseases reduce the organ’s ability to clear bilirubin. Common liver conditions include hepatitis (inflammation), cirrhosis (scarring), cancer, autoimmune liver disease, and toxic injury from poisons or certain medications.
3. Posthepatic (after the liver): Obstructions in bile flow prevent bilirubin from being excreted properly. Causes include gallstones, inflamed gallbladder or bile ducts, or compression of bile ducts by tumours or swelling.

Other specific causes include:

• Poisoning or toxic ingestion harmful to the liver or red blood cells.
• Trauma or injury to the liver, such as after being hit by a vehicle.
• Blood transfusion reactions, though rare in dogs due to careful blood typing.
• Internal bleeding or blood pooling inside body cavities.
• Cancerous growths affecting the liver or pancreas.
• Pancreatic diseases causing blockages that disrupt bilirubin elimination.

What to do if your dog shows signs of jaundice

Jaundice indicates potentially serious health issues that require urgent veterinary evaluation. Never delay seeking help if you notice yellowing of your dog’s gums, eyes, or skin.

Your vet will perform blood tests, liver function checks, diagnostic imaging, and possibly biopsies to uncover the underlying cause.

Treatment depends on accurately diagnosing and addressing the specific disease causing jaundice. This may involve medications, supportive liver care, surgery for obstructions, or other specialised care.

Early veterinary intervention is critical to give your dog the best chance of a positive outcome. Responsible pet ownership includes watching for symptoms like jaundice and acting promptly.