Extrahepatic congenital portosystemic shunt in a maltese dog

A portosystemic shunt is an abnormal connection between the portal and systemic veins, either congenital or acquired, with extrahepatic types being common in small breeds. This case report describes an 11-month-old intact female Maltese presenting with frequent vomiting, drooling, and disorientation. Physical examination revealed that the dog was underweight, and abdominal radiography revealed microhepatica. Blood tests revealed elevated ammonia levels, confirming the diagnosis of a congenital portosystemic shunt. Surgical ligation of the shunt was performed successfully, leading to recovery of the dog, marked by normalised ammonia levels and weight gain.