The gallbladder is a small organ that works closely with the liver as the collector of the bile being filtered from the liver. Bile is sent through a duct system and deposited into the gallbladder, which empties into the intestine. The liver and the gallbladder work together. If one is diseased, the other will quickly follow. 

Disease of this organ can be caused by liver problems/disease, cancer, duct obstruction, bile sludging, diet, pancreatitis, infection, intestinal disease, parasites, etc. Severe cases can result in gallbladder rupture necessitating emergency surgery and supportive care. 

There is no recorded association with breed or gender, but gallbladder disease usually occurs in middle-aged or older pets.

Signs of cholecystitis include decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, fever, shock, and even death.

To diagnose gallbladder disease, we need to check blood samples, take X-rays or perform an ultrasound.

Treatment may include diet changes to decrease fat intake and medications to help with infection, inflammation and the flow of the bile. We even have some herbal medications that can help. In severe cases, the gallbladder may need to be surgically removed. 

If your pet suffers from gallbladder disease and is placed on medication, regular follow-up visits and diagnostics are needed to ensure that your pet's gallbladder is responding and remaining healthy. 

Early disease detection is so important to get this problem under control quickly. Contact us if your pet is suffering from any of these signs.