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What if my dog's ALT is high from Rimadyl? Is her liver okay?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

11 y/o GS has ALT of 173. She's been on Rimadyl for a number of years. Is 173 a concern.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 28th, 2017

All labs have a different range of normal, so it's hard to say if 173 is a concern without having this reference. It can go from between 5-107, but a lab may have a higher range to normal. So depending on that range, this may be a slight elevation. I would speak with your vet about if this is a concerning level.

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    An ALT of 173 would be elevated according to most lab's reference values. This does not necessarily mean that the liver is not functioning well and many dogs can have similar mild changes with liver enzymes and no obvious liver disease. Rimadyl is metabolized by the liver so some veterinarians try to avoid this medication if there is any concern about liver function. In rare situations Rimadyl has been reported to cause severe liver disease but if your dog has been on the medication for years this would be very unlikely. If you are concerned you could talk to your veterinarian about other medications that are safer for the liver.

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