Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic lipidosis, is a serious condition that affects cats. It happens when a cat’s liver becomes overwhelmed by fat buildup, which can lead to severe health problems if left untreated. In this blog, we’ll discuss the signs, causes, and treatment options for fatty liver disease in cats. If you’re concerned about your cat’s health or if they are showing any unusual symptoms, contact Town & Country Veterinary Clinic at (715) 735-9511 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
What Causes Fatty Liver Disease in Cats?
Fatty liver disease occurs when a cat’s body begins to store too much fat in the liver. This can happen for several reasons, but the most common cause is when a cat stops eating for an extended period of time. Cats rely heavily on protein in their diets, and when they don’t eat, their bodies break down fat to use as energy. Unfortunately, the cat’s liver is not efficient at processing large amounts of fat, which leads to a buildup that can cause liver failure.
Several factors can lead to a cat’s loss of appetite, including:
- Stress: Changes in a cat’s environment, such as moving to a new home or introducing a new pet, can cause stress, leading to a lack of appetite.
- Illness: Cats may stop eating due to underlying health issues like infections, dental problems, or other diseases.
- Obesity: Overweight cats are at a higher risk of developing fatty liver disease, especially if they experience a sudden reduction in food intake.
Understanding the causes of fatty liver disease in cats can help you stay alert to changes in your cat’s behavior. If your cat stops eating for more than 24 hours, it’s important to reach out to us for advice and possible intervention.
Signs of Fatty Liver Disease in Cats
Fatty liver disease can develop quickly, especially if a cat stops eating for several days. Some early signs may be subtle, so it’s essential to be aware of what to look for. Common signs include:
- Loss of Appetite: One of the first indicators is a noticeable decrease in how much or how often your cat eats. Even if your cat has skipped meals before, prolonged periods without eating should raise concerns.
- Weight Loss: As the disease progresses, you may notice your cat losing weight rapidly, even if they were overweight to begin with. This weight loss is due to the breakdown of fat, which accumulates in the liver.
- Vomiting: Cats with fatty liver disease may experience frequent vomiting as their liver struggles to process the fat buildup.
- Lethargy: Cats with liver disease often become less active and may seem more tired than usual. You may find your cat sleeping more and avoiding play or interaction.
- Jaundice: A key sign of fatty liver disease is jaundice, where the cat’s skin, eyes, and gums develop a yellowish tint. This happens because the liver isn’t able to remove bilirubin from the blood properly.
- Diarrhea: Some cats may develop diarrhea as part of their digestive system’s reaction to liver problems.
- Excessive Drooling: Cats with fatty liver disease may also drool more than usual, a sign that they may be feeling nauseated.
If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it’s important to contact Town & Country Veterinary Clinic right away. Early intervention can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Diagnosing Fatty Liver Disease in Cats
If your cat is showing signs of fatty liver disease, a veterinarian will need to perform several diagnostic tests to confirm the condition. At Town & Country Veterinary Clinic, we begin with a thorough physical examination and a detailed review of your cat’s medical history.
Blood tests are often used to assess liver function and check for elevated levels of liver enzymes. These tests can help rule out other possible conditions and determine the severity of the liver damage. In some cases, an ultrasound may be recommended to visualize the liver and check for fat deposits or other abnormalities.
A liver biopsy may also be necessary to get a definitive diagnosis. This procedure involves taking a small sample of liver tissue for analysis. While this may sound invasive, it provides the most accurate results and helps guide the treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Fatty Liver Disease in Cats
Once fatty liver disease is diagnosed, prompt treatment is essential to prevent further liver damage. The primary goal of treatment is to restore your cat’s normal eating habits and provide nutritional support. In most cases, treatment involves hospitalization to ensure your cat receives the care they need.
Nutritional Support
Cats with fatty liver disease often require feeding tubes to ensure they receive adequate nutrition. A feeding tube allows us to provide high-calorie, high-protein food directly to your cat’s stomach. This helps prevent further fat breakdown and supports the liver in its recovery process. Most cats will need to be fed through a tube for several weeks while their liver heals.
Intravenous Fluids and Medications
Dehydration is a common issue in cats with fatty liver disease, so intravenous fluids are often used to keep them hydrated and stabilize their condition. In addition to fluids, your cat may receive medications to manage nausea, control vomiting, and support liver function.
Monitoring and Follow-up Care
During treatment, your cat will need to be closely monitored to ensure they are responding well to the care provided. Blood tests will be repeated regularly to track their liver function and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Once your cat starts eating on their own and their liver function improves, the feeding tube can be removed.
After your cat returns home, follow-up appointments at Town & Country Veterinary Clinic will be necessary to monitor their progress and make sure they continue to recover. We’ll provide guidance on how to adjust their diet and prevent a recurrence of fatty liver disease.
Preventing Fatty Liver Disease in Cats
Prevention of fatty liver disease focuses on maintaining a healthy diet and ensuring that your cat eats regularly. Cats are more prone to developing this condition when they go without food for extended periods, so it’s important to monitor their eating habits.
For overweight cats, gradual weight loss is key. Sudden weight loss can trigger fatty liver disease, so it’s essential to work with a veterinarian to create a safe and effective weight-loss plan for your cat. Ensuring that your cat eats a balanced diet and stays hydrated will also help protect their liver health.
If your cat experiences stress due to environmental changes, make sure they have a comfortable space where they feel safe. Reducing stress can encourage regular eating habits, lowering the risk of fatty liver disease. Cats can be sensitive to changes, so keeping their routine consistent can help prevent loss of appetite.
How Town & Country Veterinary Clinic Can Help
Fatty liver disease in cats is a serious condition, but with prompt treatment and proper care, many cats can recover fully. If your cat is showing signs of this disease or if you’re concerned about their eating habits, contact Town & Country Veterinary Clinic at (715) 735-9511 to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to help your cat get back on track and support their long-term health.