What is jaundice?
Jaundice, also known as icterus, is a medical condition characterized by yellow discoloration of the skin, gums, and whites of the eyes. It occurs when there is an excessive buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream (hyperbilirubinemia). Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down.
Normally, the liver processes and excretes bilirubin from the body. However, liver disease or dysfunction can impair this process, allowing bilirubin to accumulate to toxic levels in the blood. This excess bilirubin is deposited in tissues, causing them to take on a yellow hue.
Jaundice is not a disease itself but rather a visible sign of an underlying medical issue. Some common causes in cats include liver disease, cancer, infections, toxins, and certain medications or supplements. The severity depends on the underlying cause and to what degree bilirubin production and excretion is impaired.
Mild jaundice may cause subtle yellowing of the gums, inner eyelids, and ears. More pronounced jaundice will result in yellow discoloration extending to the skin and fur. Severe, untreated jaundice can potentially lead to neurological damage from bilirubin accumulation in the brain.
While jaundice alone may not be cause for alarm, identifying and treating its underlying cause is important. Diagnostic tests like blood work, imaging, and biopsies help determine if there is an obstruction, infection, toxin exposure, or other factors impairing normal bilirubin processing.
Causes of jaundice in cats
Jaundice in cats is caused by an accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream. There are several potential causes of jaundice in cats including:
Liver disease – Conditions such as inflammation of the liver or bile duct, cancer, or failure of the liver can prevent the normal excretion of bilirubin from the liver. This allows bilirubin to build up in the bloodstream.[1]
Blood disorders – Disorders that result in the destruction of red blood cells, such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia, can release excess bilirubin into the bloodstream.[2]
Cancer – Tumors in the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas can obstruct bile flow and lead to jaundice.[3]
Infections – Infections such as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can impair liver function.
Toxins – Exposure to toxins like heavy metals, poisonous plants, or medications can damage the liver.
Blocked bile duct – Obstructions like gallstones, inflammation, or scar tissue can prevent bile from draining properly.[4]
[1] https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_jaundice
[2] https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/icterus-or-jaundice-in-cats
[3] https://www.kingsdale.com/5-important-causes-of-a-jaundiced-cat
[4] https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/icterus-or-jaundice-in-cats
Symptoms of jaundice in cats
The most noticeable symptom of jaundice in cats is a yellow discoloration of the skin, gums, ears, and eyes. This is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment, in the blood and tissues. Other common symptoms include:
- Yellowing of the gums, ears, eyelids, and footpads
- Lethargy and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid weight loss
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
The yellowing is first noticeable in the gums, which can appear almost golden in color. As jaundice worsens, it spreads to the skin and other areas. The whites of the eyes may develop a yellow tint. Urine will also appear an abnormal dark orange or brown color. Pale feces can also indicate liver malfunction leading to jaundice (Source).
In severe cases, jaundice is accompanied by poor appetite, lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea and fever. Because jaundice indicates an underlying serious health problem, it’s important to watch for symptoms and seek prompt veterinary care.
Diagnosing Jaundice in Cats
Jaundice can be challenging to diagnose in cats, as their dark fur can hide the yellow coloring of the skin and eyes. Vets use a variety of diagnostic tests to confirm jaundice in cats:
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Physical exam – The vet will check the cat’s skin and eyes for any yellow discoloration. They will also feel the abdomen to check for enlarged organs like the liver or spleen. The vet will listen to the heart and lungs for abnormalities.
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Blood tests – A complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical profile will check for elevated bilirubin levels, liver enzymes, and electrolyte imbalances. Blood smears can check for abnormalities in red blood cells.
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Urinalysis – Tests the cat’s urine to check for bilirubin, which can indicate liver or hemolytic disease.
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Ultrasound – An abdominal ultrasound allows the vet to visualize the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, and other organs. It helps identify blockages, stones, tumors, or other issues.
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Biopsy – Taking a small sample of liver tissue for examination under a microscope. This helps determine the underlying cause of jaundice.
Once the underlying cause is found through diagnostic testing, the vet can recommend appropriate treatment options for the cat.
Treating jaundice in cats
The main goals of treating jaundice in cats are to address the underlying cause and support the liver’s function. Treatment will depend on what’s causing the jaundice.
If an infection is the cause, the vet may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications. Cats with jaundice may receive IV fluids to prevent dehydration and maintain proper fluid balance. The fluids also help flush out bilirubin and support kidney function.
Medications can help improve liver function, increase bile flow, and reduce nausea. Examples include ursodeoxycholic acid, SAMe (S-Adenosyl methionine), and maropitant citrate. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address an obstruction in the bile ducts.
Cats with severe cholestasis may need a procedure called biliary diversion surgery. This connects the gallbladder or bile ducts to the small intestines to improve bile flow when the normal channels are blocked. If liver failure occurs, a transplant may be the only potential cure.
With treatment, the prognosis for jaundice depends on the underlying disease and how soon it’s addressed. Quickly treating infections, stopping medications that cause liver damage, and addressing obstructions can lead to a good outcome.
Dietary changes for jaundice
Cats with jaundice often require dietary changes to support liver function and reduce workload on the damaged liver. The primary dietary goals are to provide a low fat, highly digestible diet with moderate to high quality carbohydrates as an energy source.
Since fat metabolism places extra strain on the liver, vets typically recommend reduced fat cat foods for jaundiced cats. Look for cat foods with 8-12% fat content from high quality ingredient sources like chicken, fish, or egg rather than plant oils. Lower fat diets help reduce the liver’s workload and may aid recovery.
Increasing digestible carbohydrates in the diet provides an alternative energy source to fat. Choose low glycemic index carbs like oats, barley, and rice which are gentler on the liver. Some prescription hepatic support diets like Hill’s Prescription Diet Feline Hepatic Formula are designed for liver disease cats.
Certain supplements may also be beneficial. Milk thistle and SAM-e help protect liver cells from toxins and encourage regeneration. Ask your vet about appropriate dosing. With any dietary changes, transition slowly over 5-7 days.
Home care for cats with jaundice
If your cat is diagnosed with jaundice but the cause is not immediately life-threatening, the vet may send your cat home with instructions for supportive care while the underlying condition is addressed. Some aspects of caring for a jaundiced cat at home include:
Monitoring symptoms – Keep an eye on your cat’s symptoms like yellowed skin/eyes, lethargy, vomiting, etc. Note any changes to report to the vet. Also monitor food/water intake.
Encouraging eating – Offer smelly, palatable foods like tuna, chicken, or canned/warmed cat food. Assist feeding if needed. Supplements can help provide nutrients.
Ensuring hydration – Make sure fresh water is always available. Administer subcutaneous fluids at home if prescribed by your vet. IV fluids may be given at the vet clinic.
Medications – Give all medications as directed, which may include antibiotics, vitamin K, steroids, or liver supplements.
Low stress – Keep your cat comfortable and minimize stress during recovery. Restrict activity and provide soft bedding in peaceful area.
Follow up visits – Bring your cat for follow up exams with the vet to monitor jaundice and treat the underlying condition.
With proper treatment guided by your vet, many cats can recover fully from jaundice. Be vigilant with home care and alert your vet to any concerns. Sources: https://www.thesprucepets.com/jaundice-in-cats-5186415, https://www.petcarerx.com/article/what-to-do-if-your-cat-suffers-from-jaundice/5155
Prognosis for jaundice in cats
The prognosis for jaundice in cats is highly dependent on the underlying cause. Some diseases that lead to jaundice can be fatal if left untreated, while other causes may have a good prognosis for full recovery.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, “The prognosis is dependent upon the underlying cause. Some diseases causing icterus are fatal, but others have a good prognosis for full recovery.”
With prompt veterinary diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many cats can recover well from jaundice. However, certain causes like liver failure or cancer may have a guarded prognosis. In these cases, supportive care and symptom management are important.
Overall, the earlier jaundice is recognized and treated, the better the outcome for the cat. Any yellowing of the skin or eyes in a cat warrants an immediate trip to the veterinarian to determine the cause and start treatment as soon as possible.
Preventing jaundice in cats
There are several steps cat owners can take to help prevent jaundice in their feline companions:
Get regular veterinary checkups. Annual exams and bloodwork can catch early signs of liver disease or other conditions that could lead to jaundice. Treating illnesses early on can help prevent jaundice.
Vaccinate against infectious diseases. Keeping your cat up to date on core vaccines like rabies, FVRCP, and FeLV can help prevent viral infections that may cause jaundice.
Use parasite control. Regular deworming and monthly flea/tick prevention helps protect against parasitic infections that could damage the liver.
Avoid toxins. Keep antifreeze, chemicals, plants, and other toxins safely out of reach of cats. Exposure to toxins is a preventable cause of liver damage.
Feed a high-quality diet. A nutritious cat food supports good liver health and function.
Provide a stress-free environment. Reducing stressors like loud noises, multi-cat tension, and changes in routine can support immune system health.
With proactive veterinary care and a few preventative steps, cat owners can reduce the likelihood of their cats developing jaundice.
When to seek veterinary care
Jaundice in cats is always a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary care. If your cat shows any symptoms of jaundice, including yellow skin, gums or eyes, lack of appetite, lethargy or vomiting, take them to the vet right away. Jaundice indicates a serious medical issue with your cat’s liver or red blood cells that needs rapid diagnosis and treatment.
According to VCA Hospitals, “The earlier medical therapy is begun, the better the prognosis for recovery” (source). Left untreated, jaundice can quickly become fatal as bilirubin builds up to toxic levels in the body. Your vet will run diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause and start appropriate treatment. They may hospitalize your cat if their condition is unstable.
Some key reasons to rush your jaundiced cat to the vet include (source):
- Yellowing of the skin, gums, or eyes
- Loss of appetite or lethargy
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Change in urine or stool color
With prompt vet care, many cats can recover fully from jaundice. But waiting too long can allow irreversible liver damage and prove fatal. If you see any signs of jaundice in your cat, don’t hesitate – get them to the vet immediately for the best chance of survival and recovery.