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My senior dog has belly spasms. Is it related to his liver condition?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 12 years and 11 months old | 19 lbs

My 14 year old Bichon Frise/Shi Tzu, is having what appears to be a periodic muscle spasm in lower ab every few seconds. There is no pain or obvious "thing" to be felt. He had Liver issue recently (maybe too much fat) and his liver was enlarged. He is on 200/50 s-Sdenosylmethionine (SAMe)/Silymarin of Silybin (sorry it is in spanish). Travelling in EU,not back to home vet for a while. Can you suggest anything? All else is normal (eating, drinking, BM's etc.)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 15th, 2019

It's hard to say what could be causing this without examining Maxx. It could be caused by pain, internal medical disease (such as liver disease), electrolyte abnormalities, neuromuscular disorder, etc. If it doesn't appear to be getting worse and Maxx is otherwise normal, then it can probably wait to see the vet. If it does get worse, bothers Maxx, or if additional symptoms develop, he should see a vet during your travels.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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