Hepatic Lipidosis is defined as an accumulation of fat (lipids) in the cells of the liver (hepatocytes). In many species, including humans, dogs, and laboratory animals, this accumulation is innocuous. In other species such as, cats, cattle, and some subhuman primates, this accumulation is often associated with signs of liver disease.
The cause of IHL is unknown, but is likely related to the cat's unique means of protein and fat metabolism.
With aggressive nutritional therapy, the mortality rate is approximately 40%, and ranges up to 90% in untreated cats. IHL may be a primary problem or may be secondary to other diseases like diabetes mellitus, other liver disorders or long periods of anorexia.
IHL is a disease of adult cats of either sex. Any breed of cat may be affected. A common denominator in nearly all cases is a period of anorexia ranging from several days to several weeks. Clinical findings in cats with IHL vary in relation to the severity and duration of the disease.
Diagnostic Information:
Increased liver enzymes on a complete blood profile coupled with the clinical signs are indicative of a IHL. A liver biopsy is often necessary to completely diagnosis the condition. From a biopsy, pathologist can also provide a degree of tissue evaluation (extent of damage done and percent of functional tissue remaining).
Treatment Information:
The primary treatment for reversal of IHL is aggressive dietary therapy. Most researchers recommend the use of high protein, low fat and adequate calorie diets. This will aid in removing the stored fat from the liver cells.In Most cases, we recommend the use of the Hill's Prescription Diet k/d.
Treatment of any metabolic alterations should be treated as well. Medicines can be given to help control vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and seizures.
Most cats will show signs of improvement within 2 to 3 weeks of initiation of dietary therapy, a few may require up to 20 weeks to improve greatly. Once a cat recovers from IHL, it is unlikely that the disease will recur, and most cats will regain full health.
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your veterinarian's office, or feel free to e-mail us.
David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC
