by 
The Curious Bag
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Dogs of all ages can develop jaundice, but it is rare in puppies. Jaundice is not a disease, but a symptom. Jaundice makes a dog's eyes, gums and skin have a yellow discoloration. There are multiple causes for jaundice in dogs.
Cause
Jaundice is caused by an increase of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a by-product of heme, a red blood cell protein, according to Vetcentric.com.
Types
The three classifications of the causes of jaundice are pre-hepatic, hepatic and post-hepatic. The type of cause depends on the nature of the disease that causes the jaundice.
When The Types Occur
Pre-hepatic jaundice occurs when the liver can't break down bilirubin as fast as it is produced. Hepatic is when the liver isn't functioning properly and can't break down bilirubin. Post-hepatic occurs when an obstruction prevents the bilirubin from exiting the body.
Feaures of the Types
Toxins and certain drugs can cause pre-hepatic jaundice. Other causes include severe heartworm disease, red blood cell parasites and infectious diseases. Certain drugs, as well as liver cancers and diseases, can cause hepatic jaundice. Pancreatitis, gallstones, cancer or traumatic injury to the gallbladder or bile duct can lead to post-hepatic jaundice.
Treatment Based on the Cause
To eliminate the jaundice, the cause must be discovered and treated.
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