🐾 Vet’s Guide to Hepatic Encephalopathy in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in 2025 🐾

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a serious neurological condition in cats, resulting from liver dysfunction that leads to the accumulation of toxins affecting the brain. This comprehensive guide provides Australian cat owners with up-to-date information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of hepatic encephalopathy in 2025.

🔬 Understanding Hepatic Encephalopathy

Hepatic encephalopathy occurs when the liver fails to effectively remove toxins from the bloodstream, particularly ammonia. This accumulation leads to neurological disturbances. HE can be classified into:

• 🐾 Type A: Associated with acute liver failure.
• 🐾 Type B: Resulting from portosystemic shunts (PSS), where blood bypasses the liver.
• 🐾 Type C: Occurring in chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis.

🧬 Causes of Hepatic Encephalopathy

Several factors can lead to the development of HE in cats:

• 🐾 Portosystemic Shunts (PSS): Congenital or acquired vascular anomalies allowing blood to bypass the liver.
• 🐾 Chronic Liver Diseases: Conditions like hepatic lipidosis or cirrhosis impair liver function.
• 🐾 Acute Liver Failure: Sudden loss of liver function due to toxins or infections.
• 🐾 High Protein Diets: Excessive protein can increase ammonia production.
• 🐾 Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Increases nitrogenous waste in the bloodstream.
• 🐾 Infections: Systemic infections can exacerbate liver dysfunction.

🐱 Recognizing Symptoms

Symptoms of HE can vary but often include:

• 🐾 Lethargy and depression
• 🐾 Disorientation and circling
• 🐾 Head pressing against objects
• 🐾 Excessive drooling
• 🐾 Seizures
• 🐾 Blindness
• 🐾 Vomiting and diarrhea
• 🐾 Increased thirst and urination
• 🐾 Behavioral changes, including aggression
• 🐾 Coma in severe cases

🧪 Diagnosis

Diagnosing HE involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing:

• 🐾 Blood Tests: Assess liver enzymes, ammonia levels, and bile acids.
• 🐾 Urinalysis: Check for urinary abnormalities.
• 🐾 Imaging: Ultrasound or CT scans to detect liver abnormalities or shunts.
• 🐾 Liver Biopsy: Obtain tissue samples for definitive diagnosis.

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment strategies depend on the underlying cause:

• 🐾 Dietary Management: Low-protein diets to reduce ammonia production.
• 🐾 Lactulose: A synthetic sugar that helps trap ammonia in the gut.
• 🐾 Antibiotics: Reduce ammonia-producing bacteria in the intestines.
• 🐾 Intravenous Fluids: Correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
• 🐾 Surgical Intervention: Correct portosystemic shunts if present.
• 🐾 Supportive Care: Manage seizures and other neurological symptoms.

🛡️ Prevention Strategies

Preventing HE involves:

• 🐾 Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Early detection of liver issues.
• 🐾 Proper Nutrition: Balanced diets to support liver health.
• 🐾 Preventing Toxin Exposure: Avoiding substances harmful to the liver.
• 🐾 Managing Underlying Conditions: Control diseases that can affect liver function.

📍 Considerations for Australian Cat Owners

In Australia, certain environmental factors and regional diseases may influence the risk of HE. It's essential to consult with local veterinarians who are familiar with area-specific risks and preventive measures.

📱 Stay Informed with Ask A Vet

For personalized advice and support, consider downloading the Ask A Vet app. Our platform connects you with licensed veterinarians for real-time consultations, helping you keep your feline friend healthy and happy.

🐾 Download the Ask A Vet app today and ensure your cat's well-being is always a tap away! 📲