Views

What Causes Liver Infections in Cats?

Like the human body, the liver is crucial to a cat's well-being. Even though liver infections are rare for cats, they require immediate attention. It is a vital organ with multiple functions. Therefore, every pet owner must pay attention to their cat's behaviour and issues. 

Is your cat suffering from a liver infection? The good part is that it can be treated, allowing your cat to go on to live happily for years. All you need is the right nutrition and treatment. What causes liver infections in cats? Well, here is all you need to know. 

Causes of Liver Infections in Cats

Liver disease in cats can occur due to many reasons. However, to understand the actual cause several factors are included like the cat’s age, environment, lifestyle, etc. For instance, here are some reasons behind what causes liver disease in cats:

• Viral, bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections 

• Poisons and toxins such as blue-green, sago palms, Tylenol, etc. 

• Inflammatory conditions such as cholangitis and Cholangiohepatitis. 

• PSS- Portosystemic shunts. 

• Endocrine disorders like diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism. 

• Obesity 

• Medications containing acetaminophen 

• Chemicals

• Fatty liver disease

• Liver cancers 

• Triaditis

• Gallbladder stones

• Congenital 

• Pancreatitis

• Diabetes

• Inflammatory bowel disease

How to Know if my Cat has Liver Disease? 

Now that you know the causes of liver infections in cats, wondering how to know if your cat has the disease? Mainly to know if your cat is infected or not, a veterinary evaluation is a must. However, for early detection, here are the signs you must pay attention to:

• If your cat's gums, skin or eyes are yellowish. 

• If your cat is vomiting frequently.

• If your cat has lost weight unexpectedly.

• If your cat is less active and lacks energy or is always tired.

• If your cat has a swollen or distended abdomen. 

• If your cat is drooling excessively.

• If you can, you are experiencing seizures.

• If your cat is falling over or having difficulty walking. 

• If your cat is pressing their head against objects.

• If your cat is facing loss of eyesight or having difficulty in navigating. 

• If your cat is walking in circles repeatedly.  

• If your cat’s urine is dark in colour. 

How do Veterinarians Diagnose Liver Infections in Cats? 

The signs of liver infections in cats are not very specific and require a veterinarian's attention. It is because they're specialists and hold in-depth knowledge, right from the root cause to the solution for how is liver disease in cats treated. When you visit a veterinarian, he/she first starts with a physical examination.

After that several screening tests are done such as urinalysis, bloodwork and other necessary blood tests depending on the cat's liver infection. For accurate diagnosis, a liver sample is required which is done through a biopsy or surgery. During this process, a needle goes into the liver directly. 

No matter what the reasons for liver infection in cats, with proper diagnosis and treatment, a cat can live a healthy life. But in cases in which the disease is excessive, humane euthanasia will be required. So whether you notice something unusual or if your cat is not eating, visit a reputed veterinarian immediately.

Some other ways on how a veterinarian will diagnose the liver infection in cats treatment is through:

• Laboratory tests

• X-rays 

• Ultrasound of the abdomen

• Biopsy of the liver 

• CT (CAT) scans 

Is it Difficult to Treat Liver Infections in Cats?

Because cats are complicated creatures, liver disease in cats treatment and diagnosis can be hard. But this doesn't mean it is not curable. With proper treatment, medication, regular checkups and the right nutrition and care, it is all possible. Some of the medication and supportive care that helps in reducing the growth of liver disease in cats are :

• Medications like SAMe, anti-nausea, vitamin supplements, ursodiol, etc. 

• Supportive care like antacids, IV fluids, pain control, feeding tube, etc. 

• Plasma transfusions

• Surgery

• Chemotherapy 

However, depending on the underlying causes of liver infection in cats, a vet may refer you to an internal medicine specialist. Another thing you need to know is that when cats become hospitalized, they get more stressed and detest it. But no matter how tough, as a pet parent you must help your furry friend get back on his/her feet. 

"In a world of purrs and gentle grace, Where playful paws leave an enchanting trace, There roams a creature, a feline so fine, A cat, a companion, a friend divine. With emerald eyes that gleam like rare jewels, And a coat that shimmers like twilight's blues, It moves with agility, a dancer's delight, A mesmerizing spectacle, both day and night.

Its whiskers, like antennae, twitch and explore, 

Unveiling secrets, forever to adore. 

A curious creature, with a mind so astute, 

It unravels enigmas, always in pursuit. 

 A master of stealth, it slinks and glides, 

Through shadows and sunbeams, where no one abides. 

Its claws, like tiny daggers, sharp and concealed, 

Ready for play or defence, whenever revealed. 

But beneath the fierce exterior, a heart beats with love, 

A tender companion, a guardian dove. 

It rubs its soft fur against your skin, 

A gesture of trust, a bond to begin. 

So let us cherish these cats, so dear, 

Whose presence brings joy and dispels every fear. 

For in their company, we find solace and grace, 

A purring symphony, an eternal embrace."

What are the causes of Hemoprotozoa in Dogs? Early Symptoms, Effects, Prevention Methods