I'm really stressing out over here and could use some advice. My sweet kitty, Luna, hasn't been herself lately. She’s usually such a lively little furball, but for the past week, she’s been pretty lethargic and not eating as much. I was brushing her yesterday and noticed her gums and the whites of her eyes look yellowish. I did some frantic Googling, and it sounds like it might be jaundice? I’m totally freaking out right now. I’ve got a vet appointment scheduled, but it’s not until the end of the week. I hate to see her like this and want to make sure I’m doing everything right in the meantime. Has anyone experienced this before with their cat? Can it wait a few days, or should I be trying to get her seen sooner? Thanks so much for any insight—I’m pretty worried and could really use some peace of mind.
Hello there! I'm really glad you reached out because noticing jaundice in your cat is something that definitely deserves some attention. Jaundice in cats usually appears as a yellow tint to the skin, eyes, or inside the ears, and it’s often a sign that the liver isn't working properly or that there’s an issue with red blood cells breaking down too quickly.
There are a few possible causes for this condition. It might be liver disease, such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease, or it could be a problem with bile duct obstruction. Sometimes, conditions like infections or certain toxins can cause these symptoms as well. It's great that you've noticed this change, as catching it sooner can lead to better outcomes.
At home, make sure your cat stays hydrated and, if you’re feeling up to it, try to monitor their appetite and energy levels. But please be cautious about trying any home treatments beyond ensuring comfort and hydration since medical assessment is crucial.
Keep an eye out for other signs that might accompany jaundice, like vomiting, weight loss, or noticeable changes in behavior or appetite. These could indicate the issue is more serious.
I strongly encourage you to book a video consult with us here at Dial A Vet. That way, we can take a closer look at your kitty and help you decide on the best next steps to ensure their health and comfort.
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