LIVER DISEASES

The liver is a vital, complex organ which performs a number of crucial functions, principally involved with metabolism and is sometimes termed the "factory of the body" which controls many of the chemical processes necessary for normal bodily function. For example, the liver manufactures many essential substances, such as proteins, bile and blood clotting factors, plays a role in controlling the metabolism and use of food substances - fats, carbohydrates and proteins - as well as removing many waste substances and potentially damaging drugs or chemicals.

Therefore disease problems can affect the liver in many ways and a diverse range of clinical signs can develop.

What signs will you notice in a cat with liver disease?

Some signs raise a strong suspicion of liver disease - most notably jaundice which appears as yellow discoloration of the skin, eye and mucous membrane, and ascites, which appears as distention's of the abdomen due to buildup of fluid. These are often accompanied by less specific signs which can be quite variable including lethargy and malaise, changes in appetite, weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea. These may be the only signs noted in some early or mild cases of liver disease.

How is liver disease recognized?

In mild or early cases of liver disease the signs are often relatively nonspecific and further investigations will be necessary to identify its presence. Since the liver is responsible for such a diverse range of metabolic functions there is a wide range of blood and urine laboratory tests which can be used to assess liver disease. These tests may also play a role in diagnosing liver disease as the cause of jaundice and ascites since both these signs may be caused by diseases not involving the liver. X-rays and scans may also be of help by showing any changes in the size or appearance of the liver.

Further investigations of liver disease

A wide range of disorders may affect the liver resulting in abnormal liver tests and there can be considerable overlap in the signs that cats affected with these different diseases develop. In some cases a specific diagnosis depends on microscopic examination of a small biopsy of the liver which may be important in deciding on the most appropriate treatment. Only a small fragment of liver is needed for the biopsy and this can be collected using several different approaches. This may involve introducing a biopsy needle through the skin directly into the liver or via an exploratory operation. Which technique is used will depend on a number of factors. In any animal there is always a slight risk associated with anesthesia/sedation and biopsy. This risk may be slightly increased with some forms of liver disease. Nevertheless the technique can be performed safely in most patients without any significant complications.

Treating liver disease

Specific treatment for the particular liver disease will depend on what liver disease is diagnosed. Some supportive measures may also be recommended in some cases. Since the liver is involved in controlling the use and metabolism of most major food substances, it may be helpful to use a diet which "reduces the load" on the liver. This may have reduced levels of fat and carbohydrate with a controlled level of high quality protein. A special commercial prescription diet may be provided for this purpose. A homemade diet may be suggested based on the following recipe:-

Mix 1/4 lb braised liver complete with any fat dripping with two large hard boiled eggs, 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of calcium carbonate.

Feed up to 1/3 LB daily depending on size, in several small meals.

Cats with liver disease may require additional vitamins etc. and your veterinary surgeon may recommend a supplement for this purpose.

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