Canine Protein Deficiency

Canine protein deficiency is also called "hypoalbuminemia". This disease is characterized by reduced plasma protein, reduced colloid osmotic pressure, and generalized edema in dogs.

Causes of protein deficiency in dogs

1. Most protein deficiency is secondary to other diseases.
2. Insufficient protein intake or malabsorption, such as esophageal stricture, chronic diarrhea, etc.
3. Excessive protein consumption, such as massive blood loss, severe burns, thermal diseases, malignant tumors, cachexia, pleurisy, peritonitis, glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, etc.
4. Protein synthesis disorders are seen in liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, etc.

Clinical symptoms of protein deficiency in dogs

1. Sick dogs show emaciation, rough coat, weight loss, growth arrest, loss of appetite, pale mucous membranes, high blood pressure decline. In severe cases, generalized edema occurs, resistance decreases, and secondary infections are prone to occur.

2. The total plasma protein content of adult dogs is 5.3-7.5g, and the albumin is 3-4.8g. If the total plasma protein drops below 5g% and the albumin drops below 3g%, protein deficiency can be considered.

Prevention and treatment measures for protein deficiency in dogs

For this disease, treating different causes is the fundamental method to treat this disease.
1. Food therapy: Give dogs food rich in protein and high calories, such as soy milk, milk, fish, meat, eggs, etc. Protein can be supplied at 2 to 3 grams per kilogram per day. People with diarrhea should increase their food intake slowly to prevent indigestion.
2. For sick dogs with severe edema, salt can be temporarily restricted.
3. According to the condition, amino acid preparations, vitamins, glucose, hydrolyzed protein, etc. can be appropriately given.
4. Blood transfusion: Dogs with severe anemia should undergo blood transfusion.