Nutritional Management of Hepatobiliary Diseases in Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats with liver disease often benefit from nutritional modifications. The most important consideration for patients with severe disease is often providing sufficient energy intake to prevent a catabolic state. Additionally, targeted nutritional modifications address specific clinical signs and liver disease pathogenesis. For instance, patients with hepatic encephalopathy often benefit from a diet with a reduced amount of protein, or a vegetarian diet as these modifications can help reduce the severity and frequency of clinical signs. This article aims to guide the clinician in understanding the indications and considerations for nutritional intervention in patients with hepatobiliary disease.