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clinic photo
May 2007 
 The Visiting Vet Newsletter
 15th Issue
Hepatic Lipidosis


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This months newsletter will include an article about Hepatic Lipidosis, fun facts, mixed breed dog DNA testing information, and the monthly trivia question. Remember, we love input on the newsletter so any recommendations or suggestions of article topics are very welcome! I hope you are enjoying the newsletter and I thank you for your time.

 Hepatic Lipidosis
 

fat cat photo Hepatic Lipidosis, also known as Fatty Liver Syndrome (FLS) is one of the most common liver diseases seen in cats. Left untreated FLS is 90% fatal.
FLS occurs when a cat stops eating for any reason. Your cat may appear almost normal, but often FLS is secondary to another serious illness such as dental disease, kidney failure, diabetes, or upper respiratory disease. Overweight cats are especially at risk for this disease. When a cat stops eating, body fat stores are rapidly broken down to supply nutrients to the cat. The fat being deposited in the liver accumulates in the liver cells and interrupts liver function. This results in liver failure and the cat will appear jaundiced with yellow coloring to the eye whites and skin.
In addition to jaundice, some signs of FLS are as follows:
  • The cat may act like it wants to eat. It will approach food then turn away.
  • Lethargic
  • Weight loss
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhea
  • Seizures

To diagnose FLS your veterinarian will recommend a physical exam and blood work including a liver function test. Other tests that might be recommended are an x-ray or ultrasound, and a liver biopsy or aspirate.

FLS is treatable but it requires 6-8 weeks of supportive therapy including fluid therapy, nutritional support and antibiotics and other medication. Nutritional support involves force feeding or tube feeding a high quality diet allowing the liver to recover and the appetite of the cat to return.

To help prevent hepatic lipidosis:
  • Keep your cat near their ideal weight.
  • Observe eating habits and know that more than 3 days of not eating can lead to hepatic lipidosis.
  • Schedule your cat for a physical exam including a dental exam at least once per year and twice a year for cats over 7 years old.
  • Keep recommended vaccinations current.
  • Feed a good quality cat food.

 


 Fun Facts
 

old dog It is a myth that a dog year equals 7 human years! The actual age of your dog in human years depends on the size of the dog. Small breed dogs are approximately 64 human years old at the age of 12 years. Medium breed dogs are approximately 69 human years at the age of 12 years. Large breed dogs are approximately 77 human years at the age of 12 years. Small dogs are considered senior at 10 years. Medium and large breed dogs are senior at 7 years old. Giant breed dogs are senior at 5 years of age.

 


 Promotions
 Trivia

The trivia question for May is : What is the name of the first cartoon cat character to ever have been made into a balloon for a parade? The first person to call us with the correct answer will have $5 credited to their account. Answer to the April question: What is the name of the rabbit on the Captain Kangaroo show? "Mr. Bunny Rabbit" Congratulations to M. Bracy for calling in with the correct answer. A $5 credit has been applied to his account.


 Mixed Breed Dog DNA Testing Now Available!

dna MMI Genomics has released a new product, The Canine Heritage Breed Test. No more guessing about the breed composition of your mixed breed dog! It is the first DNA-based diagnostic test to genetically determine you dog's breed composition. It is affordable and does not require a blood test as a cheek swab is all that is required. They currently have 38 purebred dogs in their data base but report that they will continue to add dog breeds as they become available. Sally A, one of our clients, is selling these tests online. For further information or to order a test go to the Breed Busters web page http://breedbusters.googlepages.com Please mention that you saw this ad in our newsletter!

Learn More


Thank you for your time and I wish you a fantastic month! We constantly strive to provide the best care for your family pets and exceptional service to our clients. I offer appointments while parked locally at Discount Pet Center on Gull Road and also offer house calls as available. If I can be of service to you, please give us a call at 269-731-7387 to schedule an appointment today. Also, remember if you refer a friend or family member to our clinic, both of you will be entered in our 2007 referral drawing program for many great prizes. Our next drawing is in June 2007. Please see our website for more information about our prize drawing. Our previous newsletters can be found on our web page. Thank you and Good Luck!!!

Sincerely,


Dr. Seely Rotigel
the Visiting Vet

phone: 269-731-7387

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