# Liver Disease in Cats UK — Quick answer

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/liver-disease-in-cats-uk): Liver Disease in Cats UK — Quick answer. Liver disease in UK cats often shows as jaundice, vomiting, and weight loss. Overweight cats that stop eating are at serious risk of hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver) — a potentially fatal emergency. Early blood tests and treatment improve outcomes.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/liver-disease-in-cats-uk): Liver Disease in Cats UK — What does the liver do?. The liver processes nutrients, filters toxins, produces proteins for blood clotting, and supports digestion through bile. When the liver fails, multiple body systems are affected.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/liver-disease-in-cats-uk): Liver Disease in Cats UK — Symptoms of liver disease. According to the PDSA and Blue Cross, signs include: | Symptom | Notes | |---------|-------| | Jaundice | Yellow gums, inner ears, or skin — see Jaundice in cats UK | | Vomiting & diarrhoea | Often persistent | | Weight loss | See Cat weight loss | | Increased thirst & urination | See Cat drinking too much | | Lethargy & hiding | Cats conceal illness | | Reduced appetite | Even 24–48 hours without food is serious in cats | | Drooling | Nausea — see Cat drooling excessively | | Bruising or bleeding | Clotting problems in advanced disease |

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/liver-disease-in-cats-uk): Liver Disease in Cats UK — Common causes in UK cats. Hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver) The most important UK emergency: - An overweight cat stops eating — stress, illness, or diet change - The liver becomes overwhelmed with fat - Rapid deterioration without aggressive nutritional support Any cat not eating for 24–48 hours needs a vet — especially if previously overweight. ### Cholangitis / cholangiohepatitis Inflammation of the bile ducts and liver — may respond to antibiotics and supportive care depending on type. ### Toxins - Paracetamol — never give to cats — see Can I give my cat paracetamol? - Some lilies are highly toxic to cat kidneys and liver — see Toxic houseplants ### Infections and age-related disease Chronic liver changes in older cats — may overlap with kidney disease and hyperthyroidism.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/liver-disease-in-cats-uk): Liver Disease in Cats UK — Diagnosis. Your vet may use: - Blood tests — liver enzymes (ALT, ALP), bilirubin, bile acids - Ultrasound — liver structure and bile ducts - Biopsy — in some cases for definitive diagnosis - Blood pressure and thyroid tests — rule out related conditions

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/liver-disease-in-cats-uk): Liver Disease in Cats UK — Treatment. Depends on cause: - Hospitalisation and feeding tube — critical for hepatic lipidosis - Prescription liver diets — under vet guidance - Antibiotics — for certain cholangitis types - Anti-nausea medication and fluids - Treating underlying illness — dental disease, pancreatitis, or stress Never force-feed without veterinary guidance — incorrect nutrition worsens fatty liver.

Source: https://pethealth.org.uk/health/liver-disease-in-cats-uk