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

Jaundice — the yellow discoloration of a cat’s eyes, gums, ears, or skin — is one of the most visible signs that something serious may be affecting the liver, gallbladder, or red blood cells.Across the GCC region, many cat owners notice jaundice when their cat suddenly becomes weak, stops eating, or shows yellowing around the face.

Jaundice is not a disease itself, but a warning signal that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Jaundice in Cats
Jaundice in Cats

This CureFIP GCC guide explains everything you need to know — including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care such as LiverRx™ for liver health.


What Is Jaundice in Cats?

Jaundice (also called icterus) occurs when bilirubin — a yellow pigment formed during the breakdown of red blood cells — builds up in the body.

A healthy liver removes bilirubin. But when:

  • the liver is inflamed or damaged

  • the gallbladder or bile duct is blocked

  • red blood cells are destroyed too quickly

bilirubin accumulates and causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow.

In the GCC, common causes include:

  • liver inflammation

  • gallbladder or bile duct issues

  • hemolysis (rapid red blood cell destruction)

  • viral infections such as FIP

Because jaundice is easy to spot, it often becomes the first sign of internal disease.


Symptoms of Jaundice in Cats

Common signs include:

  • Yellow gums, eyes, inner ears, or skin

  • Loss of appetite

  • Sudden weight loss

  • Weakness or lethargy

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Fever

  • Abdominal discomfort

  • Increased thirst

  • Hiding, low energy, or reduced activity

Any yellow tint should be treated seriously.


Causes of Jaundice in Cats

Vets classify jaundice into three types:


1. Prehepatic Jaundice (Before the Liver)

Caused by excessive breakdown of red blood cells.Possible causes:

  • Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia

  • Blood parasites

  • Onion or toxin exposure

  • Zinc poisoning

  • Severe infections


2. Hepatic Jaundice (Within the Liver)

Occurs when the liver itself is inflamed or damaged.Causes include:

  • Hepatitis

  • Fatty liver syndrome

  • FIP-related liver inflammation

  • Liver cancer

  • Drug or chemical toxicity



3. Post-hepatic Jaundice (After the Liver)

Occurs when bile cannot flow normally.Causes include:

  • Gallbladder inflammation

  • Gallstones

  • Tumors blocking bile ducts

  • Pancreatitis

Proper diagnosis is essential to determine treatment.


How Veterinarians Diagnose Jaundice in Cats

Vets typically perform the following:

✔ Physical Examination

Checking:

  • gum color

  • eye membranes

  • hydration

  • abdominal pain

  • temperature

✔ Blood Tests

To evaluate:

  • bilirubin levels

  • liver enzymes

  • red blood cells

  • signs of infection or inflammation

✔ Imaging (Ultrasound, X-ray)

Used to check:

  • liver size and texture

  • gallbladder health

  • bile duct flow

  • pancreas

✔ Additional Tests

Depending on symptoms:

  • FIP testing

  • toxin screening

  • coagulation tests

  • liver biopsy (only if safe and necessary)


Treatment of Jaundice in Cats

Treatment focuses on the underlying cause.Common approaches include:

1. IV Fluids

Supports hydration and improves liver function.

2. Medications

Such as:

  • antibiotics (infections)

  • steroids (immune-mediated hemolysis)

  • anti-nausea medication

  • appetite stimulants

  • liver support supplements like LiverRx™

  • vitamins and blood-building support

3. Nutritional Support

For cats that refuse food:

  • assisted feeding

  • high-calorie diets

  • feeding tubes for severe fatty liver disease

4. Surgery

If jaundice is caused by:

  • blocked bile duct

  • gallstones

  • tumors

5. FIP-Related Jaundice

Requires antiviral therapy (GS-441524).CureFIP GCC provides guidance for proper dosage and monitoring.


Recovery and Long-Term Management

Recovery varies depending on how early treatment begins. Cats may require:

  • liver-friendly diets

  • hydration and supportive care

  • stress-free environment

  • follow-up blood tests

  • supplements promoting liver repair


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

LiverRx™ is widely used across the GCC for cats experiencing liver stress or jaundice.

Key Ingredients:

  • SAMe

  • Silybin (Milk Thistle Extract)

  • Vitamin E

  • Vitamin C

Benefits:

  • Supports liver detox

  • Reduces oxidative stress

  • Helps stabilize liver enzymes

  • Promotes liver cell repair

  • Strengthens immune function

Selling fast
Effective Liver Solution - For Cats and Dogs below 10kg (30 Tablets)
AED 209.90

Prevention of Jaundice in Cats

You can reduce your cat’s risk by:

  • avoiding toxic foods, chemicals, and unsafe medications

  • providing a balanced, healthy diet

  • keeping vaccinations and vet checkups updated

  • preventing parasites and infections

  • observing early signs of illness


FAQs

Is jaundice in cats an emergency?

Yes. It always requires immediate veterinary care.

Can cats recover from jaundice?

Many cats recover with early diagnosis and proper treatment.

Can jaundice be caused by FIP?

Yes, liver inflammation from FIP may cause jaundice.

Is LiverRx™ safe for cats?

Yes — it is widely used for liver support. Always consult your vet first.

How can I check for jaundice at home?

Look at the gums, eyes, and inner ears under good lighting. A yellow tint is a warning sign.


 
 
 

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