Hepatic Lipidosis in Cats: Why Not Eating Is So Dangerous

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Cats are not built to fast. Unlike many animals, a cat that stops eating can develop serious liver disease within a matter of days. Hepatic lipidosis, often called fatty liver disease, is one of the most common liver diseases in cats, and it is a good reason to take loss of appetite seriously.

What is hepatic lipidosis?

When a cat stops eating, its body breaks down fat for energy and sends it to the liver. Cats cannot process the fat quickly enough, and the liver becomes clogged with fat. The liver cannot work properly, and cats become very ill. The condition is made worse by a cat's need for certain nutrients, such as protein and some amino acids, that are not stored in large amounts.

Who is at risk?

• Overweight and obese cats, which have more fat to mobilize. See how to help an overweight cat lose weight.
• Cats that experience stress, such as moves, new pets or boarding. See moving house with a cat.
• Cats with other illnesses, such as pancreatitis, diabetes, kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease or cancer. See pancreatitis in cats.
• Cats on a sudden diet change that they refuse
• Cats with dental pain that makes eating hard. See cat dental disease.
• Cats on a crash diet

Signs

• Loss of appetite for more than a day or two
• Weight loss, with loss of muscle
• Lethargy and weakness
• Vomiting
• Drooling
• Yellow tinge to the gums, whites of the eyes, ears or skin (jaundice)
• Dehydration
• Diarrhea or constipation
• In severe cases, trembling, confusion or collapse

See the emergency warning signs guide.

Diagnosis

Your vet will perform a physical exam and run blood tests, which often show raised liver enzymes and bilirubin. An abdominal ultrasound may show an enlarged, bright liver. A small sample of liver cells, taken with a fine needle, can confirm fat accumulation. Tests look for the underlying disease that triggered the problem, such as pancreatitis, so more tests may be needed.

Treatment

The most important treatment is nutrition. Cats usually need hospital care at first.

• Feeding tubes. Most cats need a feeding tube, placed through the nose or neck or into the stomach, to deliver a high-protein diet in small amounts. This is often well tolerated, and owners can learn to use it at home.
• Fluids and electrolytes to correct dehydration and imbalances
• Anti-nausea medication and appetite stimulants
• Vitamins and supplements, such as B vitamins, as directed
• Treatment of the underlying cause

Recovery often takes several weeks to a few months. The feeding tube is removed once the cat eats on its own.

Never try to force-feed a cat at home without veterinary guidance, since it can cause aspiration or distress.

Outlook

With early and aggressive treatment, many cats recover well, with survival rates reported in the majority of treated cats. Delays and severe liver damage lower the odds. The underlying disease also affects the outlook.

Prevention

• Do not let your cat go without eating. Call your vet if your cat refuses food for 24 hours, especially if overweight.
• Make diet changes gradually. See how to switch cat foods.
• Control weight safely. Use vet-supervised plans, with slow loss. See how much should I feed my cat.
• Reduce stress. See cat-friendly home setup.
• Treat dental disease and other illnesses promptly.
• Plan for boarding or travel with familiar food. See cat sitter vs boarding.

What recovery looks like

Recovery is gradual. A cat on a feeding tube may be fed several small meals a day, and owners are often taught to do it at home. As the cat's appetite returns, offer tempting food by mouth, and your vet will decide when to remove the tube. Regular blood tests track liver values. Most cats need weeks of nutritional support.

Weight loss done safely

Overweight cats need to lose weight slowly, usually no more than about one to two percent of body weight per week. Never withhold food abruptly. A vet-supervised plan with measured portions and regular weigh-ins is far safer. See how to help an overweight cat lose weight.

Stress and appetite

Changes at home, such as new pets, visitors or construction, can reduce appetite. Offer familiar food in a quiet spot, and call your vet if your cat skips meals for more than a day. See moving house with a cat.

When to see a vet

Do not wait. If your cat has not eaten for a day, or if you see yellow gums, call a vet. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic, and see cat vet visit costs.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.