top of page
Search

Jaundice in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery (BasmiFIP Philippines Guide)

Jaundice — the yellow discoloration of a cat’s eyes, gums, skin, or inner ears — is one of the clearest indicators that something serious is happening inside your cat’s body. Many Filipino cat parents first notice it when their cat looks unusually pale-yellow, loses appetite, or suddenly becomes weak.


Jaundice itself is not a disease, but a warning sign that the liver, gallbladder, or red blood cells are under stress. It requires fast veterinary attention.

Jaundice in Cats
Jaundice in Cats

This BasmiFIP Philippines guide explains everything you need to know — from symptoms and causes to diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care including LiverRx™.



What Is Jaundice in Cats?

Jaundice (also called icterus) occurs when the body accumulates too much bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin. But when the liver is damaged or bile flow is blocked, bilirubin builds up and turns the body yellow.

Jaundice in cats is commonly linked to:

  • Liver inflammation

  • Gallbladder or bile duct problems

  • Rapid destruction of red blood cells

  • Viral diseases such as FIP



Because jaundice is visibly noticeable, it often becomes the first sign of a serious health problem.


Symptoms of Jaundice in Cats

Watch for the following signs:

  • Yellow gums, eyes, inner ears, or skin

  • Loss of appetite

  • Sudden weight loss

  • Weakness or lethargy

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Fever

  • Discomfort or swelling in the abdomen

  • Increased thirst or urination

  • Low activity, hiding, or sleeping more than usual

Even mild yellowing requires quick action.


Causes of Jaundice in Cats

Veterinarians group jaundice into three categories based on where the problem begins.

1. Prehepatic (before the liver)

Caused by rapid destruction of red blood cells.Common causes:

  • Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia

  • Blood parasites

  • Onion or toxin ingestion

  • Zinc toxicity

  • Severe infections

2. Hepatic (within the liver)

Occurs when the liver is inflamed or damaged.Possible causes:

  • Hepatitis

  • Fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis)

  • FIP-related liver inflammation

  • Liver cancer

  • Toxins or medications

3. Post-hepatic (after the liver)

Occurs when bile cannot flow normally.Common causes:

  • Gallbladder inflammation

  • Gallstones

  • Tumors blocking bile ducts

  • Pancreatitis

Correct diagnosis is crucial to determine proper treatment.


How Veterinarians Diagnose Jaundice in Cats

To determine the cause of jaundice, vets commonly perform:

Physical Examination

Checking gum color, eye membranes, hydration, abdominal tenderness, and body temperature.

Blood Tests

To evaluate:

  • Bilirubin levels

  • Liver enzymes

  • Red blood cell count

  • Infection and inflammation indicators

Ultrasound or Imaging

Used to examine:

  • Liver condition

  • Gallbladder health

  • Bile duct structure

  • Pancreas

Additional Tests

Depending on the case:

  • FIP diagnostic tests

  • Toxin screening

  • Coagulation tests

  • Liver biopsy (only if safe and necessary)


Treatment of Jaundice in Cats

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Common approaches include:

1. IV Fluids

Supports hydration, helps circulation, and reduces strain on the liver.

2. Medications

May include:

  • Antibiotics (for infections)

  • Steroids (for immune-related hemolysis)

  • Appetite stimulants

  • Anti-nausea medications

  • Liver-support supplements such as LiverRx™

  • Blood boosters

3. Nutritional Support

Especially for cats that refuse to eat:

  • Assisted feeding

  • High-calorie diets

  • Feeding tube support for fatty liver disease

4. Surgery

For cases involving:

  • Blocked bile ducts

  • Gallstones

  • Tumors

5. FIP-Related Jaundice

If jaundice is caused by FIP, antiviral treatment (GS-441524) is required.


Recovery and Management

Recovery depends on how early treatment begins and how well the underlying cause responds. Many Filipino pet parents report improvements when medical treatment is paired with liver support.

Cats may need:

  • A liver-friendly, easy-to-digest diet

  • Adequate hydration

  • Stress-free environment

  • Routine bloodwork

  • Supplements that support liver repair


⭐ Recommended Supplement: LiverRx™ (RX Sciences)

LiverRx™ is widely used by veterinarians and cat owners to support cats experiencing liver stress, including jaundice.

Ingredients in LiverRx™

  • SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine)

  • Silybin (Milk Thistle Extract)

  • Vitamin E

  • Vitamin C


Benefits

  • Supports liver detoxification

  • Helps stabilize liver enzyme levels

  • Promotes liver cell regeneration

  • Provides antioxidant protection

  • Strengthens immune function

Selling fast
Effective Liver Solution - For Cats and Dogs below 10kg
₱2,050.00₱990.00

Prevention of Jaundice in Cats

You can help protect your cat by:

  • Avoiding toxins, harmful plants, and unsafe food

  • Maintaining a healthy diet and weight

  • Ensuring regular veterinary checkups

  • Preventing infections

  • Monitoring early symptoms of illness

  • Keeping your home safe from chemicals


FAQs

Is jaundice in cats an emergency?

Yes. It always requires immediate veterinary care.


Can cats recover from jaundice?

Many can, especially with early diagnosis and supportive liver care.


Can jaundice be caused by FIP?

Yes. FIP commonly causes liver inflammation leading to jaundice.


Is LiverRx™ safe for jaundiced cats?

Yes — it is commonly used for liver support. Always consult your veterinarian.


How can I check for jaundice at home?

Look at your cat’s gums, eyes, and inner ears under bright light. A yellow tint is a warning sign.


Instagram: @basmifipph

Official Viber: +639395419784


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page