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 With the exception of the skin, the liver is the largest organ of the body. Its main functions are to gather, transform and accumulate the substances of metabolism and to eliminate toxins.
There are a few important primary liver diseases that affect cats and these are described in this article.
The liver may also be affected in other disease processes such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis).
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What are the signs of liver disease in cats?
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Signs of liver disease include jaundice, fluid accumulation in the abdomen and enlargement of the liver. There may also be non-specific signs and these include anorexia, weight loss, vomiting, depression, dehydration, fever, and diarrhoea.
Although jaundice is generally the major sign suggestive of liver disease, other diseases not associated with the liver can cause it.
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How is liver disease diagnosed?
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Blood tests will show changes in the liver enzymes, as well as other parameters. If there is fluid accumulation in the abdomen, a sample may be collected for analysis. An ultrasound provides information on the size and shape of the liver. A sample of the liver taken by biopsy (usually during an ultrasound) may be able to give the definitive diagnosis of the disease process present.
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What are the causes of liver disease in cats?
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There are a few important primary liver diseases of cats including:
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- Feline cholangiohepatitis complex
- Hepatic lipidosis
- Liver disease caused by toxins
- Cancer
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Feline Cholangiohepatitis complex
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Bile contains the waste products of red blood cell destruction that occurs in the liver. Bile is stored in the gall bladder before being discharged into the intestine. Hepatitis refers to disease in the liver, and cholangitis refers to disease affecting the gall bladder and its ducts.
Feline cholangiohepatitis complex covers a group of inflammatory liver diseases of the cat. The diseases cannot be separated from each other, with overlapping of disease processes and pathological findings.
Treatment includes antibiotics if there is a bacterial cause, intravenous fluid therapy, Vitamin E, nutritional support, and UDCA. UDCA is a synthetic bile acid that stimulates bile flow and improves the immune system. If there is no bacterial cause, cortisone is prescribed. Other drugs have been used experimentally.
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Hepatic Lipidosis
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In this disease, most of the liver cells become filled with fat. It is usually seen in obese cats, and is proceeded by a period of rapid weight loss or stress. Hepatic Lipidosis represents deranged fat metabolism, the cause of which is unknown. It is usually diagnosed by liver biopsy.
Treatment involves intravenous fluid therapy and nutritional support. 60-70% of cases recovers.
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Liver disease caused by toxins
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Known as Toxic Hepatopathy, this type of liver disease is caused by exposure to chemicals or drugs that damage the liver. A common cause of Toxic Hepatopathy in cats is paracetamol (i.e. Panadol). Treatment is supportive, and the chances of recovery depend on the amount of liver damage that has occurred.
If you notice any of these changes in your pet, it is important to bring him or her to your veterinarian promptly.
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Editor: Dr Julia Adams BVSc
Contributor: Dr Rebecca Bragg BVSc
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