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Hepatic Lipidosis in Cats

Learning that your cat has hepatic (liver) disease can be overwhelming. Among all the feline liver conditions, hepatic lipidosis, also known as fatty liver disease, is one of the most common and can be life-threatening.

In very simple terms, hepatic lipidosis occurs when too much fat is accumulated in the liver, compromising the liver’s ability to function properly. The liver plays an important role in metabolism, detoxification, and nutrient storage in the body. When cats, especially overweight ones, stop eating suddenly, their bodies start breaking down fat to get energy. Thus, the liver becomes overwhelmed by processing this quantity of fat, leading to liver dysfunction.

This is a condition that is mostly seen in middle-aged and/or overweight cats who go through periods of stress, illness, or appetite loss.

 

Symptoms & Causes

Hepatic lipidosis can progress quickly, making early recognition critical.

Common symptoms include:

  • Loss of appetite, also known as anorexia
  • Losing weight very fast 
  • Weakness and/or Lethargy 
  • Yellowing of the eyes, gums, or skin (Jaundice)
  • Vomiting and drooling
  • Behavioral changes such as hiding, decreased grooming, not playing, sleeping more, etc.

Risk factors and causes:

  • Obesity
  • Prolonged periods without eating that are often triggered by stress or another disease
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Pancreatitis
  • Chronic gastrointestinal disease, such as IBD

If the cat shows any of those symptoms, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis through bloodwork, ultrasound, and sometimes liver biopsy can be beneficial to improve outcomes.

 

Diagnosis & Treatment

The diagnosis of hepatic lipidosis is made through a combination of clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging. For example, blood tests typically reveal elevated liver enzymes and bilirubin levels, while an ultrasound may show an enlarged and/or fatty liver.

Treatment involves intensive veterinary care that often includes:

  • Nutritional support: Cats with hepatic lipidosis must receive adequate calories—often through a feeding tube until they begin eating on their own again.
  • Fluid therapy: To correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  • Antiemetics or appetite stimulants: To reduce nausea and encourage feeding.
  • Management of underlying conditions: Includes diabetes, pancreatitis, or infection.

Some scientific/clinical studies have shown that early nutritional intervention is very important for survival for cats with hepatic lipidosis, with success rates reaching over 80% when treatment begins immediately.

Diet

Cats with hepatic lipidosis need a high-protein, calorie-dense, easily digestible diet to restore energy and liver function. If you need support choosing the best diet for your cat with hepatic lipidosis, talk with a veterinary nutritionist; at NHV, we offer personalized nutritional guidance to help your pet recover safely.