How long can a cat live with liver disease?
If untreated, this can lead to loss of function as healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue. Diseases elsewhere in the body can also affect the liver’s function. Fortunately, liver disease can be effectively managed and progression limited. Many cats go on to live happily years after their diagnosis.
Can liver disease in cats be cured?
It often occurs when cats suddenly stop eating or experience sudden excessive weight loss. Hepatic lipidosis usually occurs in overweight, middle-aged female cats (about 7 years old). However, it can also occur in male cats. Hepatic lipidosis is a serious, life-threatening illness but is curable in some cases.
What is the best food for cats with liver disease?
PURINA® PRO PLAN® VETERINARY DIETS HP Hepatic FELINE is scientifically formulated for cats with liver disease:
- The right type and level of protein to help prevent malnutrition and reduce the risk of hepatic encephalopathy.
- High in energy to help prevent weight loss.
- Highly palatable to encourage cats to eat.
Is liver disease fatal in cats?
This fat becomes stored in and around the liver cells, further compromising liver function. The cat usually becomes icteric or jaundiced, as evidenced by a yellow color in the whites of the eyes or in the skin. At this point, the disease will be fatal if not treated rapidly and aggressively.
What does liver failure look like in cats?
Because the liver is involved in many crucial functions, a cat with liver disease may show a wide variety of symptoms. These may include lethargy, anorexia (loss of appetite), weight loss, weakness, jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes and gums), vomiting, diarrhea and behavioral changes.
How do you reverse liver failure in cats?
Intravenous fluids are used to correct the dehydration. Most cats with hepatic lipidosis refuse to eat, yet the only way to reverse the process of fat accumulation within the liver is through aggressive feeding. This supplies your cat with his or her full caloric requirements.
How much does it cost to treat liver disease in cats?
General Cost to Treat Liver Disease in Cats Mild cases of feline liver disease can cost only between $300-$500. Most cases of liver disease are worse than mild, however. If your cat needs to be hospitalized, depending on how ill he is, the cost could be anywhere from $800-$3,000.
How long does it take for a cat’s liver to heal?
hepatic lipidosis is treatable with aggressive nutritional support until a normal appetite returns. A consistently high level of nutritional support is required for the liver to resume functioning so it may mobilize the excessive fat stores. This takes an average of six to seven weeks.
What can you do for a cat with liver failure?
Treatment of Acute Liver Failure in Cats Electrolytes and intravenous dextrose (sugar) will also be administered to correct any electrolyte imbalances and low blood sugar levels. The veterinarian will place the cat on a special diet that will be given to the cat through a feeding tube if they are not eating themselves.