Feline Fatty Liver: Is It Caused by Underfeeding?
Section 1: Feline Hepatic Lipidosis
Hepatic lipidosis is one of the most common liver diseases in cats, often resulting from prolonged fasting, where the liver's function becomes impaired, leading to an inefficient conversion of fat into energy and subsequent accumulation of excessive fat in the liver. Generally, if a cat exhibits prolonged anorexia (lasting over a week) or other reasons for not eating, it may develop hepatic lipidosis. Additionally, conditions such as pancreatitis and diabetes can also trigger lipidosis, so pet owners must take this seriously.
Section 2: Symptoms of Feline Lipidosis
If a cat has not eaten normally for a week and shows a dramatic weight loss, it's crucial to consider the possibility of lipidosis. In the early stages of lipidosis, cats may display signs of lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, and occasionally vomiting. In the later stages, the cat's abdomen may become significantly enlarged, and jaundice may appear on the inner ears and gums. Some cats may also experience drooling and seizures due to neurological damage. If any of these symptoms are present, it's essential to seek veterinary care promptly.
Section 3: Caring for Cats with Hepatic Lipidosis
1. Ensure Nutritional Support: Provide your cat with nutrition to survive. You can use a feeding tube to ensure it receives adequate nutrition, or opt for highnutrient, easily digestible liquid food administered in small, frequent doses.
2. Maintain Warmth: The liver is a primary heatproducing organ during rest, and when its function is compromised, the body's heat production decreases. Therefore, it's important to keep your cat warm. Additionally, due to the possibility of brittle syndrome in affected cats, which makes their skin prone to damage, be sure to protect your cat's skin during daily care.
3. Understand the Treatment Timeline: The treatment for lipidosis is a lengthy process, typically taking about six weeks before the cat's appetite begins to recover. Patience is key for pet owners during this time.
After your cat resumes normal eating, it's crucial to prevent a recurrence of lipidosis and avoid stressors. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.
