A poodle presents with vomiting, anorexia, and elevated liver enzymes. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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The presence of vomiting, anorexia, and elevated liver enzymes in a poodle suggests a liver-related issue. Aflatoxin toxicity is a reasonable diagnosis, especially considering that poodles are known to be particularly sensitive to moldy food and other sources of aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain molds found in agricultural products, especially corn and peanuts. When ingested, they can cause acute liver damage leading to clinical signs such as those observed in this case, namely gastrointestinal upset (vomiting), decreased appetite (anorexia), and liver enzyme elevation due to hepatocellular injury.

While hepatitis, cholangiohepatitis, and neoplasia can also cause similar clinical signs and elevated liver enzymes, they often present with additional clinical findings or risk factors that may not be immediately evident in this case. Hepatitis may have a more chronic presentation, cholangiohepatitis typically presents with additional signs of biliary obstruction or infection, and neoplasia may not present as acutely unless there is significant liver involvement. Furthermore, given the acute nature of the symptoms, aflatoxin toxicity aligns well with a rapid onset following exposure, making it a strong consideration in this scenario.

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