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

As a veterinarian, I often encounter concerned cat owners facing the challenges of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). This condition, though uncommon, can be serious. Let's delve into its causes, signs, and treatments to ensure your feline friend stays healthy in 2025.

🧠 What is Hepatic Encephalopathy?

Hepatic encephalopathy is a neurological disorder resulting from liver dysfunction. When the liver fails to filter toxins like ammonia from the bloodstream, these substances accumulate and affect brain function, leading to various neurological signs.

🔍 Causes of Hepatic Encephalopathy

• Portosystemic Shunts (PSS): Abnormal blood vessels bypass the liver, preventing detoxification. PSS can be congenital or acquired.
• Hepatic Lipidosis: Also known as fatty liver disease, often occurs in overweight cats that stop eating suddenly.
• Acute Liver Failure: Caused by toxins, infections, or trauma leading to sudden liver dysfunction.
• Chronic Liver Diseases: Conditions like cholangitis or cirrhosis impair liver function over time.

⚠️ Symptoms to Watch For

Signs of hepatic encephalopathy can vary but often include:

• 🌀 Disorientation or confusion
• 🐾 Ataxia (uncoordinated movements)
• 😴 Lethargy or depression
• 🗣️ Excessive vocalization
• 🤢 Vomiting or diarrhea
• 🧠 Seizures or coma in severe cases

🧪 Diagnosing Hepatic Encephalopathy

Diagnosis involves a combination of:

• 🩸 Blood tests to assess liver enzymes and ammonia levels
• 🔬 Bile acid tests to evaluate liver function
• 🖥️ Imaging (ultrasound or CT scans) to detect shunts or liver abnormalities
• 🔍 Neurological assessments to evaluate brain function

💊 Treatment Options

Managing hepatic encephalopathy focuses on reducing toxin levels and supporting liver function:

• Lactulose: A sugar that helps trap ammonia in the gut, reducing its absorption.
• Antibiotics: Such as metronidazole to reduce ammonia-producing bacteria.
• Dietary Management: Low-protein diets to decrease ammonia production.
• Surgical Intervention: Correcting portosystemic shunts when feasible.
• Supportive Care: Including IV fluids and medications to manage symptoms.

🏥 Prognosis and Management

With early detection and appropriate treatment, many cats can lead comfortable lives. Ongoing management and regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor liver function and adjust treatments as needed.

📱 Support and Resources

For personalized advice and support, consider using the Ask A Vet app. Our team is here to help you navigate your cat's health journey. Additionally, explore Woopf for training tools and Purrz for feline enrichment products to enhance your cat's well-being.

Remember, early intervention is key. If you notice any signs of hepatic encephalopathy, consult your veterinarian promptly.

Stay informed and proactive in your cat's health care. 🐱💖