Hepatic lipidosis—or fatty liver disease—is the most common liver disease in cats, and results from the accumulation of triglycerides in fat cells. While the exact cause is unknown, it occurs as a result of inadequate caloric intake; either from underlying disease (such as obesity, diabetes, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, or cancer) or stress. Fatty liver disease can occur in cats of all ages, but is most often seen in geriatric cats and obese cats that quickly lose a lot of weight.
Symptoms include:
- Anorexia
- Dehydration
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Weight Loss
- Lethargy*
- Jaundice*
- Seizures*
*seen in cases where the disease has progressed
Diagnosis is done with blood tests and liver biopsy, and treatment depends on the severity of disease progression. Treatment options include aggressive nutritional support—usually a high protein, low carb diet—through a feeding tube, IV fluids and electrolytes, B-vitamins to combat vitamin depletion, vitamin K for clotting difficulties, and blood transfusions due to low hematocrit levels.
Fatty liver disease (FLD) can occur in as little as three days if a cat isn’t eating at all, and within two weeks if a cat isn’t eating enough. FLD can have serious effects if left untreated, and a 60-80% survival rate if treated, so it is vitally important to take your cat to the vet if he or she stops eating.
Want to do more in depth reading? Check out some additional resources:
- When Caught Early, Fatty Liver Disease Can Be Cured
- My Cat Won’t Eat
- Feline Hepatic Lipidosis (MVM)
- Fatty Liver Disease in Cats
- The Telling Sign of Fatty Liver Disease
- Not Eating Can Quickly Kill
- Known Triggers of Hepatic Lipidosis-Dr. Karen Becker
