The cat's liver is in very poor condition. Liver and gallbladder disease in cats

The liver is one of the most important organs that contributes to the protection against harmful substances in the cat's body, such as allergens, poisons and toxins. In some cases, the influence of negative factors is so strong that the liver cannot cope with its functions. As a result, diseases arise that require immediate treatment. In this article, we look at liver disease in cats, their symptoms, and treatments for each.

The main signs of liver diseases and their types

Liver diseases in cats very often go unnoticed by their owners, as the signs of the disease can be confused with food allergies and bad mood. In this case, it is important to be very careful with your pet.

Most often, cats suffer from the following liver diseases:

1. Cirrhosis of the liver;
2. Cholecystitis;
3. Cholelithiasis;
4. Hepatitis;
5. lipidosis;
6. Cholangitis;
7. Liver failure.

In some cases, malignant and benign tumors, amyloidosis, peliosis and other liver diseases are diagnosed.

All liver diseases can be divided into 2 types: primary and secondary.

• In primary diseases, the lesion is localized within the liver.
• Secondary liver diseases are caused by problems in the body that have nothing to do with this organ.

As a rule, liver diseases in cats have certain signs. The task of the owner is the timely detection of the disease and the provision of quality treatment. Such actions will prevent the development of extreme stages of the disease that threaten the pet's life.

Common signs of liver disease in a cat:

• indigestion: vomiting and diarrhea;
• lack of appetite;
• weight loss;
• apathetic state;
• discoloration of feces and urine;
• severe itching;
• an enlarged abdomen as a result of the accumulation of fluid in it;
• problems with blood clotting;
• protrusion of the liver;
• hemorrhages in the skin;
• when pressing on the area in the liver zone, the cat shows great anxiety.

The presence of one or more of the above symptoms is the basis for an urgent visit to the veterinarian.

Cirrhosis of the liver

A change in the structure of the liver and overgrowth of connective tissue in it is called cirrhosis of the liver. This condition is characterized by loss of appetite, the appearance of shortness of breath, deterioration of the heart. The main sign of cirrhosis of the liver is an increase in its size and the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity of a cat. And also this liver disease can be recognized by the appearance of jaundice and diarrhea, and redness of the conjunctiva.

Causes of cirrhosis of the liver:

• prolonged intoxication of the body;
• hepatitis;
• infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses;
• insufficient amount of proteins and vitamins in the body of the animal.

Before starting treatment for cirrhosis of the liver, it is important to find out the cause of the onset of the disease. Based on these data, subsequent methods of therapy are prescribed. As a rule, vitamins, diuretics, intravenous administration of salts, glucose and proteins are used for treatment.

Cholecystitis

Symptoms of cholecystitis:

• elevated temperature;
• diarrhea;
• constipation;
• pain in the liver.

Cholelithiasis

The appearance of stones in the gallbladder and bile ducts is called gallstone disease. This ailment can proceed without symptoms for a long time. Most often, it affects cats, cats suffer from this disease 3-4 times less often. The main manifestation of this disease is severe itching of the skin, as well as obstructive jaundice, fever and indigestion.

Hepatitis toxic and infectious

Hepatitis is a liver disease in which the main functions of this organ are disrupted, as well as the metabolic processes of the whole organism as a result of the breakdown of liver cells.

Toxic hepatitis is characterized by the presence of the following symptoms:

• loss of appetite;
• temperature rise;
• apathetic state of the animal;
• weakening of the pulse;
• difficulty breathing;
• refusal of water;
• change in color of urine.

In the treatment of this problem with the liver, a diet and the use of special drugs to maintain immunity, antibiotics, and vitamins are prescribed. To avoid the disease of a cat with toxic hepatitis, it is enough to prevent poisoning of the animal.

Infectious hepatitis has the following symptoms:

• yellowing of the mucous membranes;
• vomit;
• constipation;
• weight reduction;
• temperature rise;
• increased feeling of thirst.

The attending veterinarian prescribes antibiotics, vitamins, glucose and antispasmodics to cats with this disease. At the same time, it is not allowed to give the animal dairy and meat products, broths at the beginning of treatment. You can feed with cereals and solder with decoctions and infusions of herbs.

Lipidosis

This disease occurs as a result of excessive accumulation of fat in the cells of the cat's body. As a rule, the causes of lipidosis are diseases such as diabetes mellitus or ulcerative colitis. Lipidosis is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, as a result of which this organ is damaged and swells. If timely treatment of this disease is not started, it can develop into renal failure.

Symptoms of lipidosis:

• the appearance of excess weight;
• metabolic disease;
• loss of appetite.

The treatment is based on a special diet, as well as therapeutic methods prescribed by a veterinarian.

Liver failure

One of the most serious diseases of the liver is liver failure, which can occur in acute or chronic form. Among the main symptoms of this disease, yellowing of the mucous membranes, neuropsychic disorders, and hemorrhagic syndrome can be distinguished.

Acute liver failure is characterized by the following symptoms:

• bad breath;
• vomit;
• disorientation of consciousness;
• shock state.

The causes of this disease can serve as severe poisoning and infection.

The course of the chronic form of liver failure is much slower than the acute form, so the initial symptoms may not be so pronounced. But over time, you can notice a loss of appetite, a decrease in temperature, an enlarged liver, vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, blood may be seen in the stool.

As a rule, liver failure develops as a result of the lack of treatment for certain diseases, such as diabetes mellitus or hepatosis. Older or overweight cats are at risk. The impetus for the development of the disease can be a stressful situation for the animal.

Cholangitis

Hepatic cholangitis is a disease that is characterized by severe pain in the side, accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, as well as cutting sensations when urinating. At the moment, it has not been possible to find out the exact causes of this liver disease. There is an opinion that the impetus may be problems with the immunity of the animal.

With cholangitis, not only the liver, but also the stomach suffers. And also often there is an increase in pressure. Therefore, the treatment of this disease requires a mandatory consultation with a veterinarian.

Diagnosis, treatment and prevention

Proper diagnosis of a liver problem affects the course and outcome of treatment, so it is important to notice the first symptoms of the disease in time.

The following methods are used for diagnostics:

• general and biochemical blood test;
• analysis of urine and feces;
• radiography and ultrasound of the abdominal organs;
• liver biopsy.

Based on the examination and visual examination of the animal, a diagnosis is made. Treatment is prescribed by a veterinarian; it is impossible to independently determine the symptoms and treatment of liver diseases. For this, tablets, homeopathic preparations and intramuscular injections can be used. The main condition for effective treatment is proper nutrition. If the animal has no appetite, then you can feed it through a syringe or tube.

The main preventive measures to prevent the development of liver diseases in a cat:

1. Selection of quality feed with good timing.
2. The use of a balanced diet, taking into account the necessary norm of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, minerals and vitamins.
3. Minimizing the possibility of drug overdose and toxic substances entering the cat's body.
4. Prevention of infectious diseases.
5. Timely vaccination of the animal.
6. Prevention of helminths every 4 months.

The state of health of a cat depends on the attentiveness and care of the owner, so it is important to contact a specialist in a timely manner at the first sign of illness.

Sourced from www.merckmanuals.com

The liver performs several functions in the cat's body. The liver has a large margin of safety, is capable of regeneration and has functional reserves, which provides it with a certain protection against irreversible damage. However, the liver is susceptible to diseases related to its role in metabolism - detoxification and storage of various toxic compounds.

Symptoms of liver disease can vary. These include loss of appetite, nausea, stomach ulcers, diarrhea, fever, blood clotting problems, jaundice, bloating, excessive urination and thirst, changes in liver size, weight loss, and sometimes gastrointestinal bleeding.

Hepatic encephalopathy- a neurological syndrome that is observed in many liver diseases. Symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy in cats include dizziness, aimless movement, weakness, incoordination, blindness, excessive salivation, aggression, dementia, and seizures.

Ascites- a disease in which fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity of a cat. In liver disease, a combination of high blood pressure in the liver and a disorder of salt and water metabolism leads to ascites. Edema can be controlled with diuretics (drugs that reduce the amount of water excreted in the urine), suction of fluid through a special needle, or a combination of these methods.

Hepatic lipidosis in cats.

Hepatic lipidosis refers to common liver diseases in cats. Excess accumulation of fat (triglycerides) in the liver causes liver failure. The cause is not yet known, but it has been observed that the disease is associated with a period of poor appetite (from several days to several weeks), especially in obese cats. Factors that cause loss of appetite include a change in diet (leading to weight loss) or other stressful events such as moving, travel, death of other animals, or change of owner. Hepatic lipidosis may be associated with metabolic diseases (eg, diabetes mellitus) or with digestive disorders that cause loss of appetite.

Symptoms of hepatic lipidosis in cats vary widely, including severe weight loss (over 30 - 40% of body weight) due to loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea. Usually there are signs of hepatic encephalopathy, rarely bleeding (more often in the later stages of the disease). Yellowing or pallor of the mucous membranes, excessive salivation, an enlarged liver, deterioration in the general condition of the cat while maintaining abdominal fat are often observed.

Treatment of hepatic lipidosis in cats is generally supportive until the underlying disease is found. To eliminate dehydration, cats are given fluids. It is important to restore the diet as soon as possible, so sometimes veterinarians prescribe appetite stimulants for cats. However, more often a feeding tube is required. When the cat is able to eat, a balanced protein-rich, high-calorie diet is prescribed. In cases where the cat shows signs of hepatic encephalopathy, the diet should, on the contrary, be low in protein. At first, the cat is fed often, but in small doses. If the disease is detected on time and treatment is started without delay, and the primary disease has been identified (and it is curable), the prognosis for recovery is considered good.

Inflammatory liver disease in cats.

Inflammatory liver disease is the second most common disease in cats. The two most common diseases are Cholangiohepatitis(acute and chronic) and .

Cholangiohepatitis in cats.

Cholangiohepatitis is an inflammation of the bile ducts (ducts connected to the gallbladder) that pass into the cat's liver. Cats with cholangiohepatitis may also suffer from other digestive disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease or pancreatitis.

Acute (short-term) cholangiohepatitis often associated with bacterial, fungal, or protozoal infection, less often with liver fluke infection. Symptoms are usually short-lived and include fever, liver enlargement, abdominal pain, jaundice, lethargy, vomiting, poor appetite, and weight loss. Treatment consists of fluids to relieve dehydration and a long course of antibiotics (3 to 6 months) to clear the infection. If there is an obstruction between the liver and gallbladder, surgery is required to restore normal functions.

Chronic (long-term) cholangiohepatitis may be a type of acute cholangiohepatitis, an immune-mediated disease, and also a disease caused by some severe infections - feline infectious peritonitis, leukemia, toxoplasmosis, or flukes. Chronic cholangiohepatitis is more common in Persian cats than in other cat breeds. The most common symptom is bloating and jaundice, as well as inflammation of the lymph nodes. Other signs coincide with those of acute cholangiohepatitis. The disease can progress to cirrhosis of the liver (the end stage of the disease). Treatment is with fluid infusions, antibiotics, and other medications prescribed by a veterinarian. Treatment with corticosteroid drugs is often prescribed to eliminate the immune part of the disease. At the initial stages, many cats respond well to treatment, others experience relapses, some unfortunately do not help and the cats die.

Lymphocytic portal hepatitis in cats.

Lymphocytic portal hepatitis is an inflammatory liver disease not associated with cholangiohepatitis. The cause of the disease is not clear, but is likely related to a violation of the immune functions of the cat's body. The disease is more common in cats suffering from hyperthyroidism. Symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, frequent vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and fever. About half of cats with lymphocytic portal hepatitis have liver enlargement. Treatment with antibiotics and immunosuppressive agents has had mixed success, so the veterinarian adjusts treatment based on the most up-to-date information on the cat's condition.

The impact of toxic substances on the liver of a cat.

Because the liver is involved in drug metabolism, some drugs can cause liver dysfunction in cats. Specific signs and effects are associated with specific drugs and their doses. In many cases, the veterinarian, when prescribing treatment, must take into account the potential danger of the drug to the liver and observe the cat for any signs of a decrease or change in liver function. Substances that are toxic to the liver include heavy metals, certain herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, rodent poisons, aflatoxins (produced by fungi), some fungi, and blue-green algae.

If a cat has accidentally taken an overdose of medication, or is not responding well to the prescribed dose, or has ingested poisonous substances, seek immediate medical attention. If necessary, the veterinarian will take action to reduce the absorption of toxic substances. Depending on the situation, the cat is induced to vomit, activated charcoal is administered, the stomach is lavaged, or an appropriate antidote is administered. Any information related to a possible toxin can help the doctor choose the right treatment.

Portosystemic shunts in cats.

Portosystemic (or portocaval) shunts are congenital defects of the liver. However, in some cases, they can form as a result of certain diseases - in such cases they are called acquired shunts. Symptoms of portosystemic shunts in cats include extreme thirst, vomiting, and diarrhea. There is usually an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal region (ascites). Treating the underlying disease, along with applying a special tape around the caudal vena cava (to slightly raise blood pressure outside the liver, reducing shunting), may be beneficial for some cats.

Liver infections in cats.

Feline infectious peritonitis cause viruses. Infection leads to extensive inflammation in the abdominal region, including the liver, blood vessels (vasculitis). Common symptoms are jaundice, abdominal effusion (fluid buildup), vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.

Most cases of fungal infections that cause liver dysfunction occur in coccidioidomycosis and histoplasmosis. If the liver is affected, symptoms include abdominal distention, jaundice, and an enlarged liver. Coccidioidomycosis is treated with antifungal drugs (course - from 6 to 12 months), but relapses sometimes occur. Histoplasmosis is also treated with antifungal agents. The prognosis of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and may be poor.

Some diseases affecting the endocrine glands can cause liver problems in cats. Among such diseases are diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism.

Cats with diabetes are at increased risk of developing hepatic lipidosis, as diabetes increases the metabolism and mobilization of lipids, including some lipids in the group of water-soluble fats and fat-like chemicals that are sources of fuel for the body. However, when too many lipids accumulate in the liver, its function is impaired. This problem can sometimes be corrected with insulin substitutes.

Cats with hyperthyroidism have elevated levels of certain enzymes in their livers and, in some cases, excessive amounts of bilirubin (a yellow bile pigment). These cats have jaundice. The level of enzymes in the liver almost always returns to normal after the underlying disease is cured.

Hepatocutaneous syndrome in cats.

Hepatocutaneous syndrome(Hepatocutaneous syndrome) is a rare, chronic, progressive and usually fatal dermatological disease. Often, at the same time, cats have diabetes mellitus. Typical signs are the formation of crusts and skin disorders on the feet, ears, around the eyes of the cat. Cats also show poor appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. Treatment may include antifungals and antibiotics to treat skin infections, zinc and vitamin supplements, a high protein diet, insulin to control diabetes, and cleansing of damaged skin. Unfortunately, treatment is currently ineffective and the prognosis for recovery is unlikely to poor.

Liver cysts in cats.

Cysts in the liver may be acquired (usually solitary) or present at birth (usually multiple). Congenital polycystic liver disease is more common in Persian cats. Cysts often go unnoticed, but sometimes they begin to enlarge, causing abdominal distention and other signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting, and increased thirst. Sometimes the veterinarian can find painless masses in the abdominal region. Cysts are identified using x-rays or ultrasound, but a biopsy is needed for accurate diagnosis. Surgical removal of cysts usually gives a positive result.

Liver cancer in cats.

Tumors that start in the liver (primary tumors) are much less common in cats than tumors that have spread to the liver from other parts of the body. Primary tumors are more common in cats over 10 years of age and can be either benign or malignant. Metastatic liver tumors are much less common in cats than in dogs. Tumors that form in the liver are of the types spreading from the pancreas, intestines, and also renal cell carcinomas. Metastatic tumors usually occur in multiple locations.

Cats with liver tumors usually refuse food and are inactive. Seizures can develop due to hepatic encephalopathy, low blood sugar, or cancer spreading to the brain. Physical examination may show enlargement of the liver or abdomen. The mucous membranes may be pale (due to bleeding or anemia caused by chronic renal failure) or icteric. A biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis. If a single lobe of the liver is affected, surgical removal is recommended. Chemotherapy may work for some types of cancer. For primary tumors in which several lobes of the cat's liver are affected, it is unfavorable, since effective treatment is not yet available.

Hepatic amyloidosis in cats.

Amyloid is a protein that has an irregular structure. Such a protein causes damage by crowding out normal cells. Amyloidosis is a hereditary disease of Abyssinian, Siamese and Oriental cats. Some cats may not show symptoms of amyloidosis, while others may experience decreased appetite, increased thirst and urination, nausea, jaundice, and liver enlargement. Affected cats may become unconscious and have pale mucous membranes due to liver ruptures and subsequent bleeding. Amyloidosis is diagnosed by identifying amyloids in liver biopsy samples. Amyloidosis is a progressive disease, the prognosis of treatment is poor, especially if the disease is detected late.

Gallbladder disease in cats.

The liver secretes bile, a substance that aids in digestion, the absorption of fats, and the elimination of certain harmful substances from the body. Bile is stored in the cat's gallbladder and enters the duodenum through the bile duct.

Jaundice (yellow tint visible on the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes) is often the primary sign of gallbladder and bile duct disease in cats. The exception is gallbladder cancer, which is not accompanied by jaundice.

Bile duct obstruction in cats.

Obstruction of the bile ducts often caused by diseases of the pancreas. Tumors, inflammation, or fibrosis of the pancreas can compress the ducts. Diagnosis is based on laboratory tests, X-ray and ultrasound images, indicating problems with the cat's pancreas. Successful treatment of pancreatitis often resolves bile duct obstruction. If the blockage remains, surgery may be needed to connect the gallbladder to the intestines. Obstruction is often caused by stones that form in the gallbladder, in most of these cases the cat's gallbladder has to be removed. Cancer of the pancreas, bile ducts, liver, intestines, and lymph nodes can also cause blockage. A biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis. Surgical treatments for cancer may provide a temporary effect, but recovery is not possible.

Inflammation of the gallbladder in cats.

Inflammation of the gallbladder(cholecystitis) is usually due to bacterial infections that start in the intestines and travel up the bile ducts or are carried in the blood. Loss of appetite, abdominal pain, jaundice, fever, and nausea are common symptoms of gallbladder inflammation in cats. When inflammation occurs, the cat may go into shock.

The inflammation can also spread to the surrounding branches of the bile ducts and the liver. Diagnosis is confirmed by bacterial culture biopsy and analysis of tissue samples. Treatment is usually by removing the gallbladder and giving a course of antibiotics to clear the infection. If treatment is started in a timely manner, the prognosis is favorable; in the later stages of the disease, the prognosis worsens.

Gallbladder stones in cats.

Stones in the gallbladder rarely cause disease in cats, they usually form with inflammation of the bile ducts. Symptoms include vomiting, jaundice, abdominal pain, and fever. Treatment consists of removing the stones and prescribing appropriate antibiotics.

Each animal, like any person, can suffer from various diseases of the internal organs. The same liver diseases in cats are not uncommon and occur even with the full care of a pet at any age.

The main function of the liver is to purify the blood. But she also takes an active part in such vital processes as digestion, blood circulation, full-fledged metabolism, maintaining the internal environment and balance in the body, and many others. Liver diseases in cats always have a severe course, it is extremely important to notice and treat them in time, because the pet's life depends on it. Also, do not forget about prevention through nutrition and medications.

How to determine that the liver has failed

All harmful substances that enter the cat's body with food, water and air are neutralized in the liver. When there are too many toxins, the body can fail. Then the main symptoms of liver disease in cats begin to appear, common to almost all diseases.:

• Obvious loss of appetite.
• Sharp, unreasonable refusal to eat.
• Rapid weight loss or weight gain with an unchanged diet and diet.
• Behavior change. The cat suddenly becomes too aggressive, nervous. It happens and vice versa - there is apathy, lethargy, drowsiness, loss of strength, unwillingness to play, frolic.
• Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, expressed by vomiting, often diarrhea, less often - constipation.
• Changes in the color of waste products. In a sick cat, the urine is darker, up to a rich brown color, the feces become gray, clayey.
• Deterioration of the condition of the coat. It fades, sometimes the intensity of the fallout increases. Quite often, even bald patches of different sizes appear.
• Also, a sick cat develops dandruff, the skin peels off, turns red. Sometimes there are ulcers, subcutaneous hemorrhages.
• In addition, the skin, mucous membranes, eyeballs acquire a characteristic yellow tint or turn completely yellow. Jaundice is always the main sign of liver disease in cats and signals a serious problem.
• Enlargement of the organ in size. Often, the inflamed liver is easily palpable and even strongly protrudes from the side of the body.
• Swelling of the abdomen due to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.
• Soreness of the liver, spasms. In severe cases, the cat falls into a coma.

Symptoms of liver disease are similar to some other disorders, so as soon as the above problems occur in a cat, you should immediately contact your veterinarian. He will prescribe the necessary tests, conduct an individual examination of the cat and, based on the data collected, say whether liver disease is the cause of the pet's poor health.

How are diseases diagnosed in cats?

To accurately determine the presence of liver disease in cats, the following tests and procedures are prescribed:

• General blood analysis. In this case, the main indicator needed for the diagnosis will be the level of bilirubin. When the liver is not functioning well, it rises.
• General urine analysis.
• Specific blood tests that determine the concentration of bile acids that the liver produces, reveal changes in the number of red and white blood cells, as well as a more thorough study of the protein component of the blood and plasma of a sick cat.
• X-ray, ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs in general and the liver in particular. Both procedures make it possible to assess the size of the organ, its compliance with normal parameters, confirm or refute the presence of structural changes in the tissues. Ultrasound also allows you to notice the development of the disease at an early stage.
• The most accurate results of the examination for structural changes are obtained by a biopsy of the cat's liver. Before carrying out this operation, a blood test for clotting factors is mandatory. And only if the animal does not have clotting disorders, a liver tissue sample is taken. The cat is under general anesthesia.

Timely consultation and diagnosis of the health of the cat significantly increases the chances of a quick recovery of the animal.

Diseases that can affect the cat's liver

There are many ailments known to medicine, but the most common liver diseases in cats are::

• Cirrhosis.
• Varieties of hepatosis - amyloidosis, lipidosis.
• Hepatitis.
• Cholangitis - neutrophilic, lymphocytic.

Other known diseases are rare.

cirrhosis

Cirrhosis of the liver is an excessive growth of connective tissue in the organ, which entails structural changes and disturbances in its functioning. The cause of the disease can be latent infections, lack of B vitamins, prolonged intoxication in small doses. For treatment, diuretics, choleretic drugs, potassium, calcium are prescribed to restore the function of hematopoiesis, vitamin complexes, glucocorticoids.

Amyloidosis

In amyloid disease, one or more specific types of protein accumulate in the liver. The main reason is the genetic predisposition of the cat. The proteins that gather in the organ provoke malfunctions and the subsequent occurrence of tissue ruptures with heavy bleeding into the abdominal cavity. The disease is not completely cured. To relieve exacerbation, anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, are prescribed. In severe cases, they promptly remove damaged liver tissue. A cat diagnosed with amyloidosis must always be on a special diet.

Lipidosis

The disease is characterized by the accumulation of fats in the liver cells, which cause swelling of the organ, its damage and subsequent severe dysfunction in the work. The main sign signaling a possible disease is a sharp refusal to eat. The main causes of its occurrence are considered to be overweight, metabolic disorders, and malnutrition of the cat.

Feline lipidosis confirmed after liver biopsy. For treatment, the cat must be hospitalized. In the veterinary clinic, she will be prescribed a special diet, which must be strictly adhered to, food must be administered using a special medical tube until her appetite is restored and the ability to eat on her own. After a complete recovery, the cat begins a recovery phase, up to several months long.

Hepatitis of different origin

Group diseases are divided into two types:

• infectious. The breakdown of liver cells occurs due to the presence and rapid spread of various pathogenic microorganisms in the cat's body. Most often it is a complication of the underlying disease. First of all, antiviral drugs are prescribed, then vitamin complexes, glucose and a restorative diet.
• Toxic. Occur as a result of poisoning with toxic substances of varying severity. They are treated with detoxification with the help of medications, adherence to a strict diet and drinking regimen.

Cholangitis

Neutrophilic cholangitis is a disease caused by bacteria that enter the liver from the intestines of a cat. To cure the pet, antibiotics are attributed to him. Complications are extremely rare, the disease responds well to treatment.

Lymphocytic cholangitis - leads to inflammation and enlargement of the liver, accumulation of fluids in it and the abdominal cavity. The exact causes of the disease have not yet been elucidated. For treatment I use anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulators. Usually recovery is fast, but there are times when the disease becomes chronic and requires lifelong medication.

Preventive measures

Almost all liver diseases in cats are preventable. For this it is necessary:

• Choose the right diet for your pet, monitor the diet and drink.
• Take medication strictly as directed by your veterinarian and only when needed.
• Keep any chemicals out of your cat's reach.
• Maintain the level of vitamins in the body of the animal at a normal level.
• If a cat is prone to liver diseases, give him hepatoprotectors and follow a diet.

Remember that any disease is better to prevent than to cure.

It's no secret how important the liver is for the normal functioning of the cat's body, because we are talking about a natural filter that blocks the passage of harmful substances and removes such dangerous toxins from the plasma.

Therefore, it is not surprising that if a cat has an enlarged liver, then it is more likely that the animal suffers from some serious illness that can directly affect this organ. You should be especially wary if, in addition to the fact that the cat has an enlarged liver, there is a strong bloating of the animal’s abdomen, as well as such negative symptoms of an accompanying nature as vomiting, lethargy, apathy, diarrhea, complete or partial loss of appetite and rapid weight loss. Among the possible diseases that are characterized by external manifestations of this kind, one can single out hepatitis, lipidosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure.

At the same time, making a diagnosis on one's own and, even more so, prescribing adequate therapy is impossible, and any experiments can end extremely badly for a sick animal. In addition, only a veterinarian should finally confirm whether the cat’s liver is enlarged or not, by conducting an external examination of the pet with palpation (palpation), as well as the mandatory use of ultrasound (this factor should be taken into account when looking for the best veterinary clinic). Among other things, it will be necessary to irradiate the animal with X-rays, a biopsy of its liver (if cirrhosis is suspected), an in-depth study of biological material (blood, urine, feces) in the laboratory, and special tests.

It is extremely important to understand that the sooner the diagnosis is made and effective therapy is prescribed, the more chances the owner has to cure or even save his adored pet from certain death, so any delay is like death.

Now it is time to discuss in more detail all the diseases mentioned above, which, alas, are quite common among fluffy purrs. So, hepatitis (jaundice) can be both infectious and invasive in nature, and in both cases it has similar symptoms (fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, excessive thirst, and, of course, an increase in the body of the liver itself. Diagnose this type of disease quite simple, because its most striking sign is the uncharacteristic yellowness of all the mucous membranes of the animal.In addition, it is enough to take a blood test for bilirubin to finally confirm or, on the contrary, dispel all doubts.As for treatment, it includes a hunger strike followed by a transition on a diet with concomitant antibiotic therapy.

Things will be much worse with liver failure, which is extremely difficult to diagnose, and there is no need to talk about the treatment of this ailment, since at best the animal can only be supported. As for lipidosis, its detailed description is already in the name itself, because we are talking about a liver disease caused as a result of severe obesity of the animal. However, oddly enough, against the background of this process, a complete loss of appetite most often develops with all the ensuing consequences, so therapy involves forced feeding with a further transition to a dietary diet.

At the same time, cirrhosis is still considered to be the most terrible liver disease in cats, despite the fact that it is extremely rare, affecting mainly elderly pets with acute heart failure (symptoms almost completely coincide with icteric).

As for therapy, it is carried out exclusively in a clinical setting, after a complete examination of the animal's body, and no one guarantees that the pet will be able to avoid surgical intervention, which is also not a 100% panacea for cirrhosis.

Sourced from www.icatcare.org

Liver- a vital organ located in the abdominal cavity directly behind the diaphragm. The liver performs many functions that are important for maintaining the normal state of the cat's body and ensuring the metabolic processes taking place in it:

• Digestive support (especially fats);
• Synthesis of proteins and hormones;
• Setting up energy and protein metabolism;
• Delay and withdrawal of toxic substances and products;
• Support of immune system functions;

Since blood flows directly from the intestines to the liver, part of the reason is that the liver is vulnerable to toxic and harmful substances, as anything a cat eats quickly reaches the liver. The cat's liver has an increased sensitivity to poisoning, as it lacks some of the metabolic pathways to deal with certain toxins.

In addition, the cat's liver is prone to a number of diseases, including, for example, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, lymphoma, and others.

The liver of a cat has a huge margin of safety, so liver failure rarely occurs in practice, since more than two-thirds of the entire liver must be seriously affected by the disease. The liver also has a good ability to regenerate, which makes it possible to hope for a cat's recovery even after severe liver diseases.

Symptoms of liver disease in cats.

Signs of liver dysfunction in cats are often very vague and vague. It can be:

• Loss of appetite;
• lethargy;
• Weight loss ;

Depending on the cause and degree of the disease, symptoms such as fever, increased thirst, and vomiting may occur. In some cases, liver disease can cause fluid to accumulate in the abdomen (ascites), and in more severe cases, jaundice (yellowing of the gums and skin) can occur.

Sometimes, in very severe liver disease or a "shunt" (when blood from the intestine bypasses the liver due to the presence of an abnormal blood vessel - a "shunt"), toxins that are normally trapped by the liver can reach the brain. This can cause abnormal cat behavior, disorientation, increased salivation, and even seizures or blindness.

Diagnosis of liver diseases in cats.

Because the clinical signs of liver disease in cats are often vague and nonspecific, blood and urine tests are usually required to make a diagnosis and identify the underlying cause. Indicators of blood and urine tests that allow us to talk about violations in the liver, include:

Elevated bilirubin in cat urine and blood.

The level of liver enzymes in the blood(such enzymes are produced by liver cells) with diseases (or, possibly, obstruction of the outflow of bile) may increase. These enzymes can be:

• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, alanine aminotransferase);
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP, alkaline phosphatase);
• Aspartame aminotransferase (AST, aspartame aminotransferase);
• Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT, gammaglutamyl transferase);

Bile acids. These acids, produced by the cat's liver, are very important for the digestion of fats in the intestines. With liver diseases and obstruction and impaired bile outflow, an increase in the concentration of bile acids in the blood of a cat is possible. While elevated enzyme levels may be a sign of liver disease, bile acid levels can provide information about liver function.

Hematology. Examination of red and white cells in the blood can give some indication of the potential presence of infection or inflammation in the liver.

Protein in the blood. Processing the results of blood tests can help identify liver diseases, although it is difficult to determine the severity and extent of the disease only from them. In addition, such tests do not allow to determine the cause of the disease. Some changes in a cat's blood can be caused by other diseases, such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism, so further research is needed to rule out other diseases.

Assessment of the liver (to determine its size) using x-ray and ultrasound(size and structure of the liver, possible obstruction of bile flow) can also be very useful in helping to narrow down the possible causes of the disease.

Liver biopsy at the cat. Often, finding the cause of a cat's liver disease and choosing the most appropriate treatment involves taking a sample of liver tissue for biopsy (and possibly culture to rule out bacterial infections). Obtaining samples for a liver biopsy is usually straightforward, but it is important to first ensure that the cat is clotting normally; the liver produces the proteins (or clotting factors) necessary for this. Obtaining specimens for liver biopsy in cats is usually done under anesthesia and is done with a simple surgical procedure or with a biopsy needle.

Most common liver disease in cats.

Cats are prone to many liver diseases, which is why a biopsy is so important in determining the underlying cause of the disease and choosing the most appropriate treatment. Here are some of the diseases:

Neutrophilic cholangitis in cats.

This is a disease caused by a bacterial infection in the liver, leading to inflammation. It usually develops as a result of bacterial migration to the bile ducts and into the liver from the small intestine. The disease is sometimes observed simultaneously with pancreatic and intestinal diseases. Diagnosis requires a liver biopsy and cultures on the obtained samples (or on samples of bile from the gallbladder).

Treatment is with appropriate antibiotics. If treatment is started in a timely manner, the prognosis for recovery is usually favorable.

Lymphocytic cholangitis in cats.

Unlike the previous one, this liver disease is non-infectious in nature, although it also leads to inflammation. The exact cause is not known, but it may be due to an abnormality in the cat's immune system (immune-mediated disease). Lymphocytic cholangitis often causes enlargement of the liver and may also cause fluid to accumulate in the abdomen. Diagnosis is made by examining liver biopsy specimens.

Treatment is with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting drugs—usually corticosteroids. The prospects for recovery depend on the severity of the disease and, although good, in some cases long-term or even lifelong treatment is required, and relapses are possible.

Hepatic lipidosis in cats.

In this disease, a large amount of fat accumulates in the liver cells, which leads to the formation of significant edema and damage to the liver, which can cause severe liver dysfunction. Hepatic lipidosis usually manifests itself in cats with a sharp refusal to eat, especially if the cat was previously overweight. The sudden change in metabolism in these cats is probably what causes fat accumulation. The diagnosis can be confirmed by a liver biopsy.

Treatment includes finding out the underlying cause of the disease or the circumstances that contributed to the development of hepatic lipidosis. The main way to treat the disease is to provide intensive nutritional support. The cat usually has to be hospitalized and fed on a special diet using a tube until she is able to eat on her own again. Although many cats eventually recover, the recovery process can take several months.

Toxic liver injury in cats.

Cats are very susceptible to liver disease, which is caused by exposure to a wide range of common medications or toxins that are not harmful to other animals. This is because the cat's metabolism lacks some of the processing abilities that other species have. This should be taken into account and when prescribing medication to a cat, be sure to consult a veterinarian.

Liver tumors in cats.

Many types of tumors can form in the liver of a cat. Some affect the liver itself (primary liver tumors), while others invade the liver from outside (secondary liver tumors). Unfortunately, many types of tumors are not treatable, although in the case of lymphoma, for example, chemotherapy can be effective. Tumors limited to one lobe of the liver are also amenable to surgical resection.

Amyloidosis and hepatic peliosis in cats.

Amyloidosis is a disease in which proteins of a certain type (amyloids) accumulate in the liver, causing liver dysfunction, and creating preconditions for liver rupture and hemorrhage into the abdominal cavity. Some cats are genetically predisposed to this condition.

Hepatic peliosis- a rare disease in cats in which multiple cavities filled with blood develop in the liver. As with amyloidosis, the liver becomes very fragile, and spontaneous ruptures and bleeding into the abdomen are possible.

Other liver diseases in cats.

Other liver diseases are possible in cats, including portosystemic shunts, toxoplasmosis, feline infectious peritonitis, and many others.

Treatment of liver diseases in cats.

Treatment for a cat's liver mostly depends on the underlying cause of the disease, so additional tests, such as a biopsy, are usually required. In addition to specific treatment, supportive care is usually given, often including intravenous fluids (to correct dehydration), nutritional support, and drugs to help maintain liver function and blood clotting, such as:

• Vitamin K;
• Ursodeoxycholic acid (Ursodeoxycholic acid, UDCA);
• S-adenosylmethionine (s-adenosylmethionine, SAMe);
• Silybin/silymarin (Silybin/Silymarin);