What is hepatic lipidosis?

Also known as Idiopathic Hepatic Lipidosis or Fatty Liver Disease, Hepatic Lipidosis is the most common cause of  liver disease in cats. It is caused when a cat becomes anorexic (stops or reduces the amount of food it's eating), the body begins to use fat stores as fuel. These fat stores are sent to the liver, to be broken down to supply nutrients.  Unfortunately, the liver sometimes becomes overwhelmed & is unable to process this fat as quickly as necessary, leading to a build up of fat in the liver, which  interferes with normal liver function.

This disease can strike any cat of any age, although it is seen more often in obese cats. Left untreated, this condition can quickly lead to death & veterinary attention must be sought immediately if a cat stops eating.

What causes hepatic lipidosis?

There are several causes of hepatic lipidosis, including some medical conditions which may predispose your cat to the disease, some of which are; renal failure, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, FLUTD,  owner induced diet (without careful veterinary supervision). Stress leading to a loss of appetite can also cause the disease.

50% of cases have no known cause, this is known as "idiopathic (no known cause) hepatic lipidosis.

What are the symptoms of hepatic lipidosis?

In the early stages there may be no signs of hepatic lipidosis other than anorexia. This is why it is so important that cat owners are aware of their cat's eating habits & seek medical advice urgently.

• Anorexia
• Weight loss
• Muscle wasting
• Dehydration
• Vomiting
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Excess salivation
• Jaundice (yellow colour to the skin & mucous membranes)

How is it diagnosed?

Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination of the cat & ask for a history.

Biochemical profile to check serum levels of certain liver enzymes which may be markedly elevated. [1] Ultrasound or x-ray of the liver may be performed to check the appearance of the liver & rule out other conditions. A sample of liver cells either taken by biopsy or fine needle aspirate,  which will detect the presence of fat cells to confirm diagnosis.

How is it treated?

• If caught in time, approximately 70% of cases can be reversed. Untreated, hepatic lipidosis will lead to death.
• Treatment depends on the severity of disease & any underlying medical conditions. Aggressive therapy will be required to save the cat.
• Intensive nutritional support. Most frequently this involves feeding a  calorie dense, high protein  food via a feeding tube either directly into the stomach or esophageus. This type of  feeding will usually be required for 6 - 8 weeks.
• Fluid & electrolyte therapy if the cat is dehydrated.

How can I prevent hepatic lipidosis in my cat?

• Be aware of your cat's eating habits & if you notice your cat eating less or nothing at all seek veterinary advice immediately.
• Never put your cat on a diet without close veterinary supervision.
• Try to prevent obesity in your cat,  under close veterinary supervision.

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