Hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease)
Also known as Feline Hepatic Lipidosis, Fatty Liver Syndrome
Hepatic lipidosis is a critical liver condition in cats, causing severe symptoms and requiring immediate veterinary attention.
See a vet now if
- Persistent vomiting
- Sudden change in eating habits
Symptoms
Early signs
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
As it progresses
- Jaundice
- Vomiting
Emergency signs
- Seizures
- Severe lethargy
Causes
- Anorexia
- Rapid weight loss
Risk factors
- Obesity
- Stress
Body parts affected
How vets diagnose it
- Blood tests
- Ultrasound
Treatment
At home
- Encourage eating
- Stress reduction
At the vet
- Nutritional support
- Intravenous fluids
Surgical
- Feeding tube placement
Prevention
- Regular check-ups
- Monitor weight
Outlook
- Prognosis
- With treatment, recovery is possible; without, it is often fatal.
- Typical recovery
- Weeks to months
Hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) questions
What is hepatic lipidosis?
A serious liver condition in cats caused by fat accumulation due to anorexia.
How is hepatic lipidosis treated?
Treatment includes nutritional support and fluid therapy.
Can this condition be prevented?
Yes, through regular monitoring and maintaining a healthy diet.
What are the risks of untreated hepatic lipidosis?
If untreated, it can be fatal due to liver failure.
Why is my cat at risk?
Obesity and stress increase the risk of hepatic lipidosis.
Full clinical detail
Overview
Hepatic lipidosis, commonly known as fatty liver disease, is a serious condition primarily affecting cats. It occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver, impairing its function. This condition is most often seen in overweight cats that suddenly stop eating.
Causes
Hepatic lipidosis is typically triggered by a period of anorexia or rapid weight loss in cats. Causes of such events can include stress, illness, or changes in diet.
Symptoms & Signs
Early Symptoms
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
Advanced Symptoms
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Vomiting
Emergency Symptoms
- Seizures
- Severe lethargy
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually involves blood tests, ultrasound, and sometimes liver biopsy to confirm fat accumulation in the liver.
Treatment Options
Home Care
- Attempting to encourage eating
- Stress reduction techniques
Veterinary Care
- Nutritional support via feeding tube
- Intravenous fluids
Surgical Care
- In rare cases, surgical intervention to place a feeding tube may be required.
Home Care
Owners should focus on reducing stress and ensuring a consistent diet to encourage regular eating.
Prevention
- Regular veterinary check-ups
- Monitoring diet and weight
Prognosis & Recovery
With prompt treatment, cats can recover, but the condition is life-threatening if untreated. Recovery may take weeks to months.
When to See a Vet
- Persistent vomiting
- Sudden change in eating habits
FAQ
What is hepatic lipidosis?
A serious liver condition in cats caused by fat accumulation due to anorexia.
How is hepatic lipidosis treated?
Treatment includes nutritional support and fluid therapy.
Can this condition be prevented?
Yes, through regular monitoring and maintaining a healthy diet.
What are the risks of untreated hepatic lipidosis?
If untreated, it can be fatal due to liver failure.
Why is my cat at risk?
Obesity and stress increase the risk of hepatic lipidosis.
Worried about your pet?
This page is general guidance, not a diagnosis. A vet should examine your pet before any treatment starts.