What should I do if my cat has jaundice?

If your cat has jaundice, it means their skin, gums, or the whites of their eyes have turned yellow due to an excess of bilirubin, a substance that is created when the body breaks down red blood cells. Jaundice is a sign of an underlying
health issue, often related to the liver, red blood cells, or bile ducts, and it’s important to address it quickly.

Signs of Jaundice in Cats:

Yellowing of the skin: You may notice your cat’s skin, especially around the ears, belly, or inside of the mouth, turning yellow.
Yellow eyes: The whites of your cat’s eyes (sclera) may appear yellow.
Lethargy: Your cat may seem unusually tired, lack energy, or be less active than usual.
Loss of appetite: Cats with jaundice often lose interest in food and may stop eating altogether.
Vomiting or diarrhea: Jaundice can sometimes cause digestive upset.
Dark-colored urine: The urine may appear darker than usual, often a brownish or tea-like color.
Pale stools: Your cat’s stools may be lighter than normal, sometimes appearing gray or clay-colored.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Has Jaundice?

1. Visit the Veterinarian

The first thing you should do if you notice jaundice in your cat is to take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Jaundice is a sign that something is wrong, and the underlying cause needs to be identified and treated.

Your vet will likely ask about your cat’s medical history, recent behaviors, and any potential exposure to toxins or illnesses. They may perform several tests, such as:

Blood tests: To check liver function, red blood cell count, and identify possible infections or other underlying diseases.
Ultrasound or X-rays: These imaging techniques can help identify problems with the liver, bile ducts, or any potential blockages.
Urinalysis: To check for abnormal substances in the urine that could provide clues about your cat’s condition.

2. Treat the Underlying Cause

Jaundice is not a disease in itself but a symptom of another problem. The treatment your cat needs will depend on what is causing the jaundice. Some common causes include:

Liver disease: Conditions such as hepatitis, liver tumors, or cirrhosis can cause jaundice. Treatment may include medications to support liver function, antibiotics if there’s an infection, or even surgery in some cases.
Hemolytic anemia: If your cat’s red blood cells are being destroyed too quickly, they may need medications to address the cause, such as immunosuppressive drugs if it’s an autoimmune issue.
Bile duct obstruction: If the bile ducts are blocked by something like a tumor or stones, surgery or other procedures may be necessary.
Infections: Infections like leptospirosis can cause liver damage and jaundice, and your cat may need antibiotics or antiviral medications.

3. Follow the Veterinarian’s Care Plan

After diagnosing the cause, your vet will outline a treatment plan. This might involve:

Medications: Your cat may need specific drugs to treat liver problems, boost red blood cell production, or fight infections.
Supportive care: This could include intravenous fluids to keep your cat hydrated, and nutritional support if they are not eating.
Monitoring: Your vet may want to monitor your cat’s progress with regular follow-up visits and additional tests to ensure the treatment is working.

4. Provide Comfort and Care at Home

While your cat is recovering, make sure they have a quiet, comfortable place to rest. Encourage them to drink water and eat, but don’t force it if they aren’t interested. Some cats with jaundice may be reluctant to eat, but you can try offering tasty,
high-quality food to tempt them. If your vet has prescribed medication, follow the instructions carefully and keep track of any changes in your cat’s condition.

Why Use PettureX APP?

Managing jaundice and its underlying causes can be complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. The PettureX APP is a helpful tool for pet owners who need expert advice. With its AI-powered technology, PettureX offers
24-hour online consultations with experienced veterinarians, so you can get guidance and support whenever you need it. Whether you’re unsure about the diagnosis, want to understand your cat’s treatment plan, or need reassurance during
recovery, PettureX provides easy access to professional, accurate information, helping you make the best decisions for your cat’s health.