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Feline hepatic lipidosis, often referred to as fatty liver disease or fatty liver syndrome, is a serious medical condition in cats that can be fatal when not treated. The condition refers to a malfunctioning liver caused by a large amount of fat that has accumulated in the organ.

CAUSES

Several factors can play a role in fatty liver disease. Disease, nutrition and toxic substances that injure the liver can all lead to a buildup of fats in the liver. The most common cause of hepatic lipidosis is obesity however; around half of all cases of fatty liver disease in cats are idiopathic (unknown cause).

Veterinarians believe that stress can trigger fatty liver disease with the potential of developing the disease being higher when a cat is overweight. Cats can become stressed when things in their environment change such as a move or a new pet being brought into the home. Other stresses that can affect a cat include diet changes, infections or underlying problems which decrease the appetite.

SYMPTOMS

The most common symptoms of fatty liver disease are a loss of appetite and lethargy or depression. A loss of weight and muscle mass can result from not eating. Jaundice and vomiting are not uncommon when the fat builds up in the liver. Owners may notice their cat not acting normal, refusing to eat and simply lying about.

TREATMENTS

Early intervention is the key to successfully treating feline hepatic lipidosis. Along with ulcer prevention medications, the cat will need to go on an extensive therapy diet which requires devotion from the cat owner. The nutritional support can last up to six weeks or more which includes a high-protein, high-calorie diet.

Most cases of nutritional support require feeding tubes to be placed into the stomach via the cat's side, nose or esophagus. The disease can lead to dehydration bringing potassium levels down which may require supplementation of fluids and electrolytes. Vitamin K supplements are usually needed to help the blood coagulate. Antibiotics may also be prescribed as a protective measure to help the immune system ward off infections.

Just over half of all cats diagnosed with fatty liver disease are estimated at surviving with approximately 35 percent succumbing to the disease. Cat owners can help prevent feline hepatic lipidosis by not overfeeding, encouraging plenty of exercise and watching for any signs of changes in eating behaviors in their cats especially when changes have been made in their routine. With proper treatment, the disease is reversible and is rarely known to reoccur after being fully treated.

References:

http://www.peteducation.com/ar ticle.cfm?c=1+2135&aid=217

http://www.gcvs.com/imaging/ul trasound/lipidosis.htm

http://maxshouse.com/Feline_He patic_Lipidosis.htm

Learn more about this author, Angela Pollock.
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