Canine Cause of Low Protein Levels
Proteins are groups of amino acids that perform specific functions within a dog's body. Proteins help build muscles, repair tissue and transport oxygen in the blood. There are essential and non-essential amino acids. Because a dog's body cannot adequately produce enough essential amino acids, a high-protein diet is critical. Low blood protein levels are often caused by a dietary deficiency; however, there are other conditions that can cause low blood protein levels as well.
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Protein Losing Enteropathy
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Protein Losing Enteropathy in Dogs (PLE) is a group of intestinal diseases that cause a large amount of protein to be leaked into the dog's gut. Symptoms vary and include severe weight loss and respiratory problems.
Malnutrition
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A malnourished dog will have a protruding rib cage, swollen skin, vomiting and foul smelling diarrhea. Low blood protein levels are a clear indication that a dog is suffering from malnutrition.
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Nephrotic Syndrome
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Nephrotic syndrome can be caused by Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney) or Amyloidosis (an abnormal deposit of amyloid protein in the kidney). This condition causes a low blood protein level, high cholesterol and fluid accumulation (edema) in the dog's body.
Liver Disease
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The normal function of the liver involves the formation of amino acids into proteins. When disease is present that interferes with this process, protein levels in the blood are reduced.
Lymphoplasmacytic Enteritis
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Lymphoplasmacytic enteritis is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes certain cells to infiltrate the lining of the intestines leading to a disruption of the normal bowel function and a loss of protein.
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