Liver issues
Liver issues can be worrying for pet owners, as they can significantly affect wellbeing and, in some cases, may be life-threatening. At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets are here to support both you and your pet through these challenges. Using gentle, whole-body therapies and personalised care, we aim to help support liver function, manage symptoms, and improve your pet’s comfort and overall wellbeing.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
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Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
Why your pet’s liver health matters
The liver is a multi-functional powerhouse that plays many roles in keeping your pet healthy. It helps remove toxins from the body, processes nutrients from food, produces important proteins, supports digestion through bile production, and contributes to healthy blood function.
When the liver isn’t working properly, pets may become lethargic, lose their appetite, have digestive issues, or develop jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Because the liver supports so many essential processes, liver disease can affect overall health and wellbeing. Early support and care can make a big difference in helping your pet feel comfortable and maintain their quality of life.
What we treat:
Please be advised that this list is not exhaustive. If your pet’s ailment has not been listed, it is still likely that we can help. Please do not hesitate to reach out!
An abnormal connection between the blood vessels of the liver and the body that allows toxins to bypass the liver. This can lead to poor growth, digestive issues, and neurological signs such as confusion or disorientation.
Inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by infection, toxins, or the immune system. It can affect how the liver processes nutrients and removes waste, sometimes leading to lethargy, poor appetite, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Inflammation of the gallbladder, the small organ that stores bile produced by the liver. It can cause digestive upset, abdominal discomfort, or changes in appetite and energy.
Cancer that starts in the liver itself, which can interfere with normal liver function and may cause weight loss, lethargy, poor appetite, or jaundice.
How we support your pet’s liver health
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a gentle, holistic approach to supporting pets with liver issues. By combining carefully selected Chinese herbal remedies with acupuncture, TCM aims to support liver function, help manage associated signs such as digestive upset or lethargy, and promote overall comfort and wellbeing.
TCM is highly individualised, allowing our qualified vets to create personalised herbal and acupuncture plans tailored to your pet’s unique needs. When used alongside conventional care, these therapies can help optimise overall health while minimising potential side effects from medications, making it a safe and supportive option for your pet.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
With Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we believe that food is one of the most powerful tools for supporting your pet’s overall health. An appropriate diet is fundamental to effective treatment.
Processed foods, such as kibble, may contribute to inflammation and place extra strain on the liver. With food therapy for liver issues, we aim to nourish the liver, support its proper function, and promote overall comfort and wellbeing.
By understanding how different foods affect your pet’s body, our qualified vets can create a personalised dietary plan tailored to their unique needs. This helps your pet feel comfortable, energetic, and well-nourished.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, recovery and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
