Hepatic Lipidosis In Cats: How Long Can A Cat Go Without Eating?

While a fat cat might appear to be a happy cat, there is actually a deadly condition that your cat can develop from being obese. Cats are highly dependent on protein in their diet, the protein is needed for fat metabolism which is then used for energy. "Feline Fatty liver" can develop when cats go for days without food (can be as little as 36 hours). 

Hepatic Lipidosis in cats (feline fatty liver) is when the liver stops functioning properly and stores fat, instead of metabolizing it. The cells swell and become "fatty". This build up of fat inside the liver cells can be associated with diseases that cause decreased appetite, or metabolic disorders such as diabetes or in some case there is no identifiable cause. 

It is important to seek veterinary help as soon as possible for the best prognosis.  Your veterinarian will use ultrasound and  blood tests (to evaluate liver enzyme levels) to help make a diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made it will be critical to find the underlying cause of why your cat was not eating as this will help determine the best course of treatment.  

Why Are Cats At Risk For Hepatic Lipidosis?

This unique combination of cats' physiology, dietary requirements, and metabolic adaptations makes hepatic lipidosis a significant concern for cat owners and veterinarians. Prompt recognition and treatment are essential for a successful outcome in affected cats.

Obligate Carnivores: Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they have a biological requirement for meat in their diet. Their livers are adapted to metabolize high amounts of protein and fat. However, if a cat suddenly stops eating, their liver can become overwhelmed with fat, leading to hepatic lipidosis.

Rapid Mobilization of Fat: When cats stop eating, their bodies quickly start breaking down fat stores to meet energy needs. Unlike other animals, cats have a limited ability to convert fat into glucose, which is essential for energy. As a result, excessive fat mobilization overwhelms the liver, leading to the accumulation of fat within liver cells.

Metabolic Adaptations: Cats' livers are not as efficient as those of other animals in handling large amounts of fat. Their metabolic pathways are adapted to deal with the high protein content of their natural diet. Sudden changes, such as fasting or a drastic shift to a high-carbohydrate diet, can disrupt these metabolic processes and lead to hepatic lipidosis.

Risk Factors: Cats are prone to stress-induced anorexia, which can trigger hepatic lipidosis. Additionally, obese cats or those with certain medical conditions are at higher risk. Female cats, especially those who have recently given birth, are also more susceptible.

Hepatic lipidosis can progress rapidly in cats, leading to severe liver dysfunction and even death if not treated promptly. The condition requires intensive veterinary care, including nutritional support and sometimes hospitalization.  Diet changes and supplements like liver support, probiotics and enzymes can also help.  Natural treatments for hepatic lipidosis can be lifechanging for cats. 

Author:   Susan Blake Davis

Revised and Updated:  3/20/2024

Originally Published 9/1/2019

Natural Hairball Treatment For Cats

Hairballs may be a common occurrence, but cats that regularly get them often have a motility or digestive problem.   Long-haired cats have more of a hairball issue than short-haired cats, but poor digestion is the biggest culprit.  Hairballs form when excessive amounts of hair accumulates in the stomach and is later coughed or vomited up. Feeding a hypoallergenic, high moisture diet (avoid dry food as cats are carnivores and the starchy carbohydrates in dry food are hard to digest) along with Power Probiotic, Lypozyme and Amazing Omegas can improve digestion and motility. Add Ask Ariel's Soothing Digestive Relief to relieve discomfort.  You can also try mixing a small amount of canned pumpkin into meals. Finally brushing your cat can also help.

Supplement For Mast Cell Tumors In Dogs

What are mast cells? Mast cells appear in connective tissue and are responsible for allergic and histamine responses. Mast cell tumors are one of the most common skin tumors on dogs. As dogs age, they may get lumps and bumps and it's important to see a veterinarian to differentiate between fatty lipomas and malignant tumors. Ask Ariel's AllerEaze contains quercetin and nettles to control histamine response, reduce inflammation and support your dog's immune system. It is a veterinary recommended supplement for mast cell tumors in dogs.  

Free cancer diet tips included with your order.  Please click on the links to learn more about AllerEaze and holistic treatments for mast cell tumors in dogs.  

FDA ISSUES WARNING ABOUT PIG EAR DOG TREATS

Pig Ear Dog Treats Linked To Salmonella Outbreak

The FDA and CDC (Center For Disease Control) have issued warnings not to give pets pig ear treats due to a widespread salmonella outbreak across many states. People have been getting sick after handling the pig ear treats and pets could get sick from ingesting them. Multiple products have tested positive for salmonella and some are being recalled. For your safety and your pets, the FDA is recommending that ALL pig ear treats be avoided and not to touch them. If you have any pig ear treats, throw them away in a secure container and carefully clean your hands and any surfaces that came in contact with them.

To learn more, click on the FDA Report

Sago Palm Can Be Deadly For Pets

The Sago Palm has beautiful feathery foliage and is a very popular plant that is easy to grow either indoor or outdoor as it requires minimal care. However, this beautiful plant can be deadly for your pet.  It is important to be aware that while all parts of the Sago Palm are poisonous,  the seed (nut) is considered the most toxic as it contains the most Cycasin, which can lead to severe liver failure in dogs.

A dog can start to have a reaction within 15 minutes of ingesting the plant, but it can also take several hours which may make it difficult to know what is causing your pet the distress.  The amount ingested relative to the size of your pet can affect the level of toxicity. Every minute can count and the key to a favorable outcome is to seek immediate medical attention if you think your pet has consumed Sago Palm.

With early detection and quick treatment, a positive prognosis is possible and many dogs and cats make a full recovery. But, fast action is essential so that a veterinarian can use medical treatments to eliminate the toxin.  Short-term and long-term supportive care for liver function will also most likely be required.

Common signs of Sago Palm Poisoning

·         Vomiting

·         Diarrhea

·         Lethargy

·         Inappetence

·         Abnormal fluid accumulation in the abdomen

·         Abdominal pain

·         Jaundice

The Liver Support Kit -  Contains three gentle formulas Lypozyme, Power Probiotic and Liver/Gallbladder Support Formula to  support digestion and liver detoxification

Special SAMe - Powerful antioxidant scientifically proven to support liver health and detoxification (our formula is for pets over 13 pounds). Very important to use if your pet is taking NSAIDs anti-inflammatories such as Deramaxx , Metacam, Rimadyl or pain killers such as Tramadol.

Oxicell SE - Contains key antioxidants to support liver health in an easy to use topical cream

Digestive Enzymes For Pancreatitis In Cats and Dogs

Chronic canine and feline pancreatitis is more common than acute pancreatitis. It is an inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs and cats may be: loss of appetite, dehydration, vomiting and a tender abdomen. Pancreatitis treatment at home consists of a reduced fat diet and digestive enzyme supplements to help break down fats and proteins. Ask Ariel's Pancreatitis Kit includes digestive enzymes for pancreatitis in cats and dogs along with 2 home remedies that relieve symptoms and help pets feel better. Free pancreatitis diet tips with your order!

Pancreatitis And Liver Support Kit

• Backed by science
• Veterinary-approved and recommended digestive enzymes for pancreatitis
• Easy to administer and well tolerated by both cats and dogs
• Supports liver health 
• Relieves digestive symptoms and indigestion 
• Improves digestion of fats and protein, reducing pancreatic flare-ups 
• Excellent for pets with elevated liver enzymes, diabetes and cushing's disease 

SAVE $10 - Kit price is $10 less than products purchased separately.

Many Cats Love The Outdoors But How To Keep Them Safe?

It’s a big world outside and so much to explore. Cats have a natural curiosity that can be stimulated by the sights, sounds and smells; as well as other exciting things like insects, shadows, birds and plants in the great outdoors.  Keeping your cat safe outdoors is a challenge however as there are cars, predators, bully cats,  poisonous plants and dangerous substances.  Having a "catio" is an ideal situation where kitty can enjoy the outdoors but remain safe.  Catios come in different varieties, multi-levels with all kinds of perches and designs for backyards and window boxes.  Other options include training your kitty to walk on a harness or walking together in a stroller.  If you do let your cat outside, be sure your kitty has a microchip and collar with a current ID tag.