Feline hepatic lipidosis

Jaundiced cat

FelineHepaticLipidosisEsophagealFeedingTube

Feline Hepatic Lipidosis (FHL), also known as feline fatty liver syndrome, is a serious and potentially fatal liver condition that affects cats. It is characterized by the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver, which interferes with the liver's ability to function properly. This condition is most commonly seen in overweight cats that experience a sudden loss of appetite and stop eating, but it can affect cats of all sizes and weights.

Causes

The exact cause of Feline Hepatic Lipidosis is not fully understood, but it is often triggered by a period of anorexia (not eating). When a cat stops eating, its body begins to use fat stores for energy. This fat is processed in the liver to be converted into usable energy. However, if the cat is not eating enough to sustain this process, the fat accumulates in the liver cells, leading to hepatic lipidosis. Factors that can lead to a cat not eating include stress, changes in the environment, underlying medical conditions, or anything that would cause a decrease in appetite.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Feline Hepatic Lipidosis can vary but often include:

• Loss of appetite
• Rapid weight loss
• Lethargy
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes)
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Behavioral changes

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Feline Hepatic Lipidosis typically involves a combination of clinical signs, blood tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasound. Blood tests may show elevated liver enzymes, indicating liver damage. An ultrasound can help visualize the liver and assess the extent of fat accumulation.

Treatment

Treatment for Feline Hepatic Lipidosis is aggressive and focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and nutritional support to encourage eating. This often involves:

• Feeding tubes to provide nutrition directly to the stomach if the cat is unable to eat voluntarily
• Fluid therapy to address dehydration
• Medications to manage symptoms such as nausea or vomiting
• Close monitoring of liver function and overall health

Prevention

Preventing Feline Hepatic Lipidosis involves maintaining a healthy weight for your cat and ensuring they have a balanced diet. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and manage underlying health conditions that may lead to decreased appetite and weight loss.

Prognosis

With prompt and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for cats with Feline Hepatic Lipidosis is generally good. However, if left untreated, the condition can be fatal. Recovery can take several weeks to months, and it is crucial to follow the veterinarian's recommendations closely throughout the treatment process.