What is liver disease?
The liver is an important organ with many functions, including the digestion and conversion of nutrients, the removal of toxic substances from the blood, and the storage of vitamins and minerals. Because the liver works to rid the body of so many different substances, it is susceptible to damage from many different sources. Liver disease results in inflammation, known as hepatitis. 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. Proper nutrition and continuous dialogue with your veterinarian are key to managing your cat’s liver disorder.
What causes liver disease?
Factors that increase your cat’s likelihood of developing liver disease include:
Age: Several diseases, including liver dysfunction, are common in geriatric cats.
Breed: Certain breeds, such as Siamese cats, are more likely to be born with or are prone to develop particular liver problems.
Obesity: Cats that are severely overweight may be more likely to develop liver disease.
Medications and chemicals: Medications containing acetaminophen can damage the liver in cats.
Does my cat have liver disease?
The signs of liver disease can be very similar to those of other conditions. If you notice any of the following signs in your cat, contact your veterinarian for a complete examination.
Symptoms to look out for include:
- Poor or loss of appetite
- Sudden weight loss
- Weight loss
- Jaundice (yellowing of gums, whites of the eyes or skin)
- Increased thirst
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Changes in behavior
- Excessive drooling
- Lack of energy or depression
Other possible signs of liver disorders include dark-colored urine, pale gums, or a build- up of fluid in the abdomen that could be mistaken for sudden weight gain. Your veterinarian can administer other tests to diagnose liver disease.
IMPORTANT: The signs of liver disease are not very specific, making it difficult to recognize. If obese cats stop eating, there could be fatal complications. Cats that lose their appetite for two to three days may experience Feline Hepatic Lipidosis, a condition associated with a dangerous build-up of fat in the liver that impairs proper function. If your cat is not eating, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Tasty Tips
The importance of nutrition
If your cat is diagnosed, you may be wondering how to take care of your cat with liver disease. Treatment of any hepatic disease is aimed at resting the liver and minimizing those functions that have to do with metabolism of fats, proteins, carbohydrates and drugs. When your cat has liver disease, it’s even more important to feed the right cat food. Feed your cat easily digested carbohydrates, high-quality fats and limited amounts of sodium to control ongoing liver damage and improve liver function.
For accurate diagnosis and treatment options, always consult your veterinarian and ask them to recommend the best food for your cat’s liver health.
Ask Your Veterinarian About Liver Disease:
- Are there any foods I should avoid giving my cat because of her condition?
- Ask how human food may affect your cat’s health.
- Would you recommend a Hill’s® Prescription Diet® cat food for my cat’s liver health?
- Ask about special nutritional concerns for your cat
- How much / how often you should feed the recommended food to your cat
- Discuss which treats you can feed your cat with the recommended food
- How quickly should I expect to see signs of improvement in my cat’s condition?
- Can you provide me with written instructions or a booklet on liver disease for my cat?
- What is the best way (email/phone) to reach you or your hospital if I have questions?
- Ask if you need a follow-up appointment.
- Ask if a reminder email or notice will be sent.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet chicken in precisely balanced nutrition. Provide a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Multiple Benefit Chicken Recipe cat food
Supports ideal body weight for cats with different body types
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Entrée Can Variety Pack Cat Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Liver Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced turkey & liver to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Salmon & Yellow Peas Recipe cat food
Grain free, easy-to-digest food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Highly digestible food that is gentle on the stomach. Nourishes skin & promotes lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Fewer calories for less active cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Spinach Casserole Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports energy level & beautiful fur. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Kitten No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Related articles
Signs of Stress in Cats and How You Can Help | Hill's Pet
Learn how to recognize the signs of stress in cats and how to help a stressed cat find relief. Learn the implications of stress on her overall health, and what you can do to help ease her.
Six Ways to Socialize Your New Cat
Socializing a cat into a new home takes patience and love. Discover these cat socialization tips to help an adopted cat adjust to her family.
Adopting an Adult Cat: What You Need to Know
Understand how adopting an adult cat from a shelter is different than adopting a cat, and what to expect when you bring her home for the first time.
Heart Disease in Your Cat: How Nutrition Can Help
Heart diseases can manifest in cats similar to humans, so it is important to catch the warning signs early and consult your vet. Learn more now.
Helping Your Cat Recover from Serious Illness or Accidents
Illnesses, accidents and surgeries are an unfortunate consequence of life, even for cats. Understand how nutrition can play a role in your cat's recovery.
Meal Feeding vs. Free Feeding Cats: What's Best?
Curious if your cat can eat on her own schedule? Learn about free feeding, how it can impact your cat's diet, and if this method is a good fit for her.
What to Expect at Your Kitten's 6-Month Health Check
We advise a 6-month health check up for any new kitten to ensure it's in good health condition. Read more about what to expect at your visit.
Letting Your Cat Outside: What You Need to Know
Get tips on how to take the proper precautions when letting your kitten outside for the first time including the proper age and time of day.
Is Your Cat Scooting on the Carpet? Anal Glands May Be the Culprit
Find out why a cat scooting on carpet could be a sign of inflamed anal glands and what you can do to help relieve your cat's agitation.
Why Is My Cat Limping?
Understand reasons why your cat might be limping, from joint problems to excessive jumping, as well as when you should be concerned and how you can help.
Tips for Managing Your Cat's Kidney Disease
Understand the importance that kidneys play in your cat's health, and know how to spot the warning signs of kidney disease.
Why Adopting a Free Kitten Isn't Always a Good Idea
If you're considering adopting a free kitten, learn some of the things to keep in mind, from potential health problems to socialization issues.
Hyperthyroidism in Cats: Warning Signs, Management & Treatment
Learn how to spot the warning signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism in your cats. Read more to know what questions to ask your vet.
Male Cat Urinary Blockages: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
While male cat urinary blockages are common, they can be life-threatening. Learn how to spot symptoms and info on prevention, treatments & stress factors.
How to Make DIY Cat Shelves
Creating DIY cat shelves gives your cat a place to play and relax that isn't your dining table! Here's how to make them attractive and functional.
Rehoming a Cat: Tips for Finding a New Home
Learn situations which might necessitate rehoming a cat, as well as tips for researching new homes and how to prepare a cat for a new forever home.
Should You Give Your Cat Bread?
A slice of warm bread is a tasty treat for many pet owners but should it be shared with a feline friend? Can cats eat bread, or is bread bad for cats? Before giving your pet some of your sandwich or baguette, here's what you need to know about cats and bread.
Helping a Cat with Sensitive Skin
Discover how to identify cat sensitive skin and what you can do to help your cat thrive from head to paw.
Can Cats Have Down Syndrome?
Learn about special needs cats and whether strange behaviors or physical characteristics might mean they have down syndrome.
When Does a Cat's Play Aggression Cross the Line?
Learn tips for identifying and minimizing overly aggressive play cats, such as adopting positive play techniques with your feline friend.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.