Splenomegaly in Dogs

The symptoms of this disease are abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, lack of appetite, or lethargy. If you detect any of them you need to take your dog to the vets immediately.
Splenomegaly in Dogs

Last update: 24 May, 2020

We’re pretty sure you’ve struggled to pronounce the name of this disease. Don’t worry, today we’re going to make it sound more familiar by telling you about splenomegaly in dogs. It’s easier than it looks, and once you know more about this disease, the more likely you’ll be able to pronounce it.

Everything you need to know about splenomegaly in dogs

What is it?

Although the name is very technical, the disease itself is not so complex. It is the   inflammation of the spleen . It can affect dogs of different breeds, genders, or ages, although middle-aged and large-sized dogs are most likely to suffer from it.

This disease doesn’t directly affect the spleen, but is usually the result of an infection from another disease. However, when it does occur, splenomegaly in dogs needs explicit treatment regardless of the disease that caused it.

Causes

Many illnesses cause inflammation of the spleen. From abdominal injury , intestinal disease, to spleen cell tumors, hepatitis, and other causes.

However, common factors have already been identified. If your dog has an inflamed spleen, the vet will do an examination and can easily determine the cause if your dog has any of these diseases.

Symptoms

The symptoms of splenomegaly are as follows:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Lack of appetite
  • Weakness or collapse
  • Abdominal pain
  • Reduction in the pace and frequency of activities
A dog excreting.

If you notice any of these symptoms, take your dog immediately to a vet. Don’t forget that inflammation of the spleen is the result of a disease that could be serious. Caring for your pet in enough time could save its life.

Don’t take the changes in your dog’s behavior or body for granted. Your vet needs to check everything. If your dog is diagnosed with splenomegaly, don’t forget you can request further tests from the vet to identify the initial disease.

Diagnosis

The best way to know if your pet suffers from splenomegaly is to look at their abdomen. Depending on the size of the inflammation, they may have a strange lump. Even if it doesn’t exist, the vet will feel the abdomen to rule out inflammation.

Another way would be through x-rays, which allow the vet to see the spleen and its surroundings and detect abnormalities. And, of course, a blood test could give clear indications of other medical problems that could have caused inflammation.

Treatment

The most logical thing, especially when the inflammation is very large, is to understand what causes it. Knowing that many diseases can lead to swelling, the vet will examine your pet thoroughly to understand what the cause is and decide on treatment.

A old dog.

In cases of mild splenomegaly, inflammation of the spleen is treated with specific anti-inflammatory drugs. However, removing the spleen may be necessary in more serious cases.

Up until now, we can’t prevent this disease. However, observing your pet will be paramount to avoid major illnesses from any type of condition or disease.

Don’t underestimate the changes your animal may have suffered, however small they may be. Visiting the vet to make sure everything is always the best option.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Finkelstein Hetzel, A. (2012). Enfermedades de resolución quirúrgica y técnicas operatorias del bazo en el perro (Memoria para optar al titulo profesional, Universidad de Chile).

This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.