Cats are experts at hiding the fact that they are ill, causing liver dysfunction to go unnoticed until significant liver damage has occurred. Many of the clinical signs associated with liver disease may be also be seen in other diseases states, so diagnosis usually requires laboratory testing. The most common clinicat signs of hepatic lipidosis include weight loss, inappetence, dehydration, enlargement of the liver, and jaundice. A definitive diagnosis is based on microscopic examination of liver biopsy tissue.
Initial therapy includes restoration of fluid and electrolyte balance to correct dehydration.
The most important aspect of therapy is reinstitution of proper portein and caloric intake. This may be accomplished by intravenous feeding, forced oral feeding, or administration of appetite stimulants.