Symptoms & Treatments for Cat Jaundice: A Comprehensive

Understanding Jaundice in Pets

Jaundice in animals can be broadly categorized into three main types: prehepatic, hepatic, and posthepatic.

Prehepatic Jaundice

This type of jaundice is caused by the destruction of red blood cells, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream.

Hepatic Jaundice

Hepatic jaundice is a result of liver diseases that affect the liver's ability to process bilirubin effectively.

Posthepatic Jaundice

Posthepatic jaundice occurs when there is a blockage in the bile ducts, either within the liver or outside of it, causing a backup of bile and subsequent yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes.

Symptoms of Jaundice

The primary symptoms of jaundice in cats include a lack of energy, depression, decreased appetite, yellowing of the skin, and discoloration of the mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Treatment for Jaundice

There is no direct medication to cure the symptoms of jaundice; treatment must be tailored to the underlying cause to effectively alleviate symptoms.

Treatment Principles for Hepatitis

The treatment of hepatitis focuses on removing the cause, protecting the liver, detoxifying, reducing inflammation, and fading the yellowing. If the hepatitis is caused by parasites, the first step is to deworm the pet. Treatment involves administering medications to protect the liver, energy supplements, and drugs to reduce bilirubin levels, all given via intravenous fluids. Additionally, antiinflammatory injections are administered.

Compliance with Medical Treatment

By actively cooperating with the veterinarian's treatment plan, there is a high likelihood of recovery and a return to good health for your pet.