Symptoms of Liver Failure in Cats and How to Treat Cat Liver Disease

Liver failure in cats occurs when over 75% of the liver's function is lost, often resulting in massive liver necrosis. While more common in dogs, it can seriously affect cats of any age, breed, or gender. Understanding the symptoms of liver failure in cats can help you act early and protect your pet's health.

Common Causes of Cat Liver Failure

1. Medications

Improper use of certain medications can lead to cat liver failure:

• Antibiotics
• Chemotherapy drugs
• Dewormers (antiparasitic medications)
• Painkillers
• Anesthetics

2. Biological Toxins

• Amanita mushrooms (death cap)
• Aflatoxins (toxins from mold or fungi)

3. Infectious Diseases

• Infectious canine hepatitis
• Leptospirosis

4. Other Causes

• Heat stroke
• Thromboembolic diseases
• Shock
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
• Acute circulatory failure

Signs and Symptoms of Liver Failure in Cats

• Vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
• Depression
• Seizures
• Coma
• Abdominal swelling
• Ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen)

Other signs may include excessive drooling and lethargy. These cat liver disease symptoms require urgent veterinary attention.

How Vets Diagnose Cat Liver Failure

Your veterinarian may recommend the following diagnostic tests:

1. Complete blood count (CBC)
2. Biochemical profile
3. Urinalysis
4. Serum bile acid test
5. Ammonia level test
6. Coagulation tests
7. Abdominal X-rays
8. Ultrasound imaging
9. Liver biopsy and culture
10. Exploratory surgery
11. Laparoscopy

Treatment Options for Cat Liver Failure

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. It may include:

• Hospitalization and IV fluid therapy
• Nutrition and special dietary plans
• Plasma or starch colloid therapy
• Antibiotics and antiemetics
• Diuretics to remove excess fluids
• Lactulose to reduce ammonia absorption
• Mannitol to reduce brain swelling
• Vitamin K supplementation

Home Care and Prevention Tips

Follow your vet’s guidance on prescriptions and nutrition. Regular follow-ups and bloodwork are key to tracking recovery. Preventing liver problems in cats symptoms involves limiting exposure to toxic foods and medications. Keep chemicals and poisonous plants out of reach, and seek prompt care for any signs of liver issues.

Final Thoughts

Symptoms of liver disease in cats can be subtle at first, but early recognition and treatment are crucial. Understanding signs of liver failure in cats and working with your vet can help your cat recover. Stay informed and proactive—your cat’s life may depend on it.