Bile Acids (Before and After a Meal)

A sensitive test of how the liver works, including liver shunts.

About this test

Two samples: one after a fast, and one two hours after a small meal. Together they show how well the liver clears bile acids from the blood. They pick up liver shunts, which toy breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese can be born with, and liver disease that the routine enzymes miss.

What it measures

Fasting bile acids
Bile acids 2 hours after a meal

Before the test

No food for at least 12 hours before the sample; an overnight fast suits a morning visit. Water is fine.
Puppies and kittens under 4 months, and toy-breed puppies under 6 months, shouldn't go without food for more than 4 hours.
Diabetic pets and pets on regular medicine: ask your vet before fasting, and give insulin only as your vet advises.
Bring a small portion of your pet's usual food. The visit takes about two and a half hours.

Good to know

Done at our centre, because the second sample is taken two hours after a meal.