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Jaundice in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery (CureFIP Guide)

Jaundice — the yellow discoloration of a cat’s eyes, gums, skin, or inner ears — is one of the clearest signs of a serious internal issue involving the liver, gallbladder, or red blood cells. Many cat owners first notice jaundice when their cat becomes weak, stops eating, or begins to look unusually yellow.

Jaundice in Cats
Jaundice in Cats

Jaundice is not a disease itself. It is a clinical warning sign that requires prompt attention.

This CureFIP guide explains the symptoms, causes, diagnostic steps, treatment options, and liver support strategies, including the use of LiverRx™.


What Is Jaundice in Cats?

Jaundice (also known as icterus) occurs when bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, accumulates in the body.

Under normal conditions, the liver processes and removes bilirubin.Jaundice develops when:

  • the liver is inflamed or damaged

  • bile cannot flow properly

  • red blood cells are being destroyed too rapidly

Common causes include:

  • liver inflammation

  • bile duct or gallbladder problems

  • hemolysis (rapid breakdown of red blood cells)

  • viral diseases such as FIP



Because the yellow tint is visible, jaundice often becomes the earliest recognizable symptom.


Symptoms of Jaundice in Cats

Symptoms may include:

  • Yellow gums, eyes, inner ears, or skin

  • Poor appetite

  • Sudden weight loss

  • Weakness or lethargy

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Fever

  • Discomfort in the abdomen

  • Increased thirst

  • Hiding or low activity

Even subtle yellowing should be evaluated promptly.


Causes of Jaundice in Cats

Veterinarians classify jaundice into three categories:


1. Prehepatic Jaundice (Before the Liver)

Occurs when red blood cells break down too quickly.

Causes include:

  • Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia

  • Blood parasites

  • Onion or toxin exposure

  • Zinc poisoning

  • Severe infections


2. Hepatic Jaundice (Within the Liver)

Occurs when liver function is compromised.

Causes include:

  • Hepatitis

  • Fatty liver syndrome

  • FIP-related liver inflammation

  • Liver tumors

  • Drug or toxin-induced liver injury


3. Post-hepatic Jaundice (After the Liver)

Occurs when bile flow is blocked.

Causes include:

  • Gallbladder inflammation

  • Gallstones

  • Tumours compressing the bile duct

  • Pancreatitis

Correct diagnosis determines the correct treatment plan.


How Veterinarians Diagnose Jaundice in Cats

A veterinarian may perform several tests:

✔ Physical Examination

Checking:

  • gum and eye colour

  • hydration

  • abdominal pain

  • body temperature

✔ Blood Tests

To evaluate:

  • bilirubin levels

  • liver enzymes

  • red blood cell count

  • signs of inflammation or infection

✔ Imaging (Ultrasound, X-ray)

To assess:

  • liver size and appearance

  • gallbladder health

  • bile duct structure

  • pancreas

✔ Additional Testing

Depending on the case:

  • FIP testing

  • toxin screening

  • coagulation panels

  • liver biopsy (if safe)


Treatment of Jaundice in Cats

Treatment focuses on the underlying cause.The following options are commonly used:

1. IV Fluid Therapy

Supports hydration and improves liver function.

2. Medications

Depending on the cause:

  • antibiotics

  • steroids (for immune-mediated hemolysis)

  • appetite stimulants

  • anti-nausea medications

  • liver support supplements such as LiverRx™

  • vitamins and blood-building support

3. Nutritional Support

Especially if the cat stops eating:

  • assisted feeding

  • calorie-dense diets

  • feeding tube support (for severe fatty liver disease)

4. Surgical Treatment

Required for:

  • bile duct obstruction

  • gallstones

  • tumours

5. FIP-Related Jaundice

Requires antiviral therapy (GS-441524).


Recovery and Management

Recovery time varies depending on how early the jaundice is treated. Cats often benefit from:

  • liver-friendly diets

  • maintaining hydration

  • reduced stress

  • follow-up bloodwork

  • supplements that support liver regeneration


⭐ Recommended Liver Support: LiverRx™ (by RX Sciences)

LiverRx™ is widely used to support cats suffering from liver inflammation, jaundice, or liver stress.

Key Ingredients

  • SAMe

  • Silybin (Milk Thistle Extract)

  • Vitamin E

  • Vitamin C

Benefits

  • Supports natural detoxification

  • Reduces oxidative stress

  • Helps stabilize liver enzymes

  • Promotes liver cell repair

  • Supports immune balance

⚠️ LiverRx™ is a support supplement, not a replacement for veterinary care.


Prevention of Jaundice in Cats

You can reduce your cat’s risk by:

  • avoiding toxins and unsafe foods

  • providing balanced nutrition

  • keeping regular veterinary visits

  • preventing infections

  • paying attention to early changes in behaviour or appetite


FAQs

Is jaundice in cats an emergency?

Yes. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

Can cats recover from jaundice?

Many cats recover, especially with early diagnosis and proper treatment.

Is jaundice related to FIP?

Yes. FIP often causes liver inflammation, which can lead to jaundice.

Is LiverRx™ safe for cats?

Yes, but always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplements.

How do I check for jaundice at home?

Examine the gums, eyes, and inner ears under bright light. Yellow tint is a warning sign.


WhatsApp: +1-646-653-2654‬

Instagram: @curefipawareness 

 
 
 

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