The liver is an important organ with many functions, such as the digestion and transformation of nutrients, the removal of toxic substances from the blood, as well as the storage of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, liver disease is very important.
The liver is vulnerable to damage from many different sources as it operates to exclude many different substances from the body. Liver disease results in inflammation known as hepatitis. If this disease is not treated, healthy liver can be replaced by injured tissues, resulting in loss of function. Diseases seen elsewhere in the body can also negatively affect the function of the liver.
Fortunately, liver disease can be effectively treated and its progression can be limited. Many cats continue their happy lives even years after diagnosis. Proper nutrition and constant dialogue with your veterinarian are key to treating liver disease in your cat.
What are the causes of liver disease?
Factors that increase your cat’s chances of getting liver disease include:
Age: Various diseases, including liver dysfunction, are common in geriatric cats.
Breed: Some breeds are more likely or likely to have certain liver problems, such as siamese cats.
Obesity: Overweight cats are more likely to get liver disease.
Medicines and chemicals: Medicines containing acetaminophen can harm the liver in cats.
Do I have liver disease in my cat?
Symptoms of liver disease can be very similar to those of other problems. If you notice any of the following signs on your cat, contact your vet for a complete examination.
Symptoms to consider are:
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden slimming
- Weight loss
- Jaundice (gums and white areas of the eyes or skin)
- Increased need for water
- Vomiting or diarrhea;
- Change in behavior
- Extreme dribble
- Energy loss or depression
Other possible symptoms of liver ailments include dark urine, pale gums, or a buildup of fluid that can be mistaken for sudden weight gain in the abdomen. Your vet may run some tests to diagnose liver disease.
IMPORTANT: Symptoms of liver disease are not very specific and difficult to detect. If obese cats stop eating, this can have fatal consequences. Cats that lose their appetite for two to three days may experience Felin Hepatic Lipidosis, a condition that prevents the liver from functioning properly and is associated with a dangerous accumulation of fat. If your cat is not eating, contact your vet immediately.
The importance of nutrition
If your cat has been diagnosed with this disease, you may be wondering how you can deal with it. The treatment of all liver diseases aims to rest the liver and minimize the functions associated with the metabolism of fat, protein, carbohydrates and drugs. When your cat has liver disease, it is even more important to feed it with the right cat food. Feed your cat with easy-to-digest carbohydrates, high-quality fats, and a limited amount of sodium foods to control ongoing liver damage and improve liver function.
For the correct diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian and ask him to recommend the most beneficial foods for your cat’s liver health.
Ask Your Vet About This Disease:
1.Are there any foods I should avoid giving to her because of my cat’s condition?
- Ask how the food people eat can affect your cat’s health.
2.What kind of cat food would you recommend for my cat’s liver health?
- Ask about your specific nutritional concerns about your cat
- Find out how much and how often you should give your cat from the recommended food
- Ask your cat from what food treats you can give
3.How soon should I expect to see signs of improvement in my cat’s condition?
4.Can you provide written instructions on liver disease for my cat or suggest a booklet?
5.When I have questions, how quickly (e-mail / phone) can I reach you or your hospital?
- Ask if a follow-up appointment is required for control purposes.
- Ask if a reminder email or notification will be sent.
Try this article for seasonal recommendations for cats.
