Pet Insurance Claim of the Month- February 2016: Feline Hepatic Lipidosis

A recent claim at PetFirst reminds us that obesity can lead to other, potentially life-threatening, conditions for our pets.

A brief overview of the claim:

Feline Hepatic Lipidosis for Kita (8-year-old Domestic Shorthair Cat)

Vet bill:                 $4,896.67

PetFirst paid:     $4,290.75

The story:

Obesity had led Kita to an issue in late 2015, which was dermatitis due to getting matted from being overweight. Kita’smom had her professionally groomed and started her on anew diet to help her lose weight.

Unforutnately, Kita was diagnosed with feline hepatic lipidosis, also known as feline fatty liver syndrome, in February 2016. While the main cause is unknown, obesity is known to greatly increase a pet’s risk of developing this disease. Feline hepatic lipidosis is where the liver coverts body fat into usable energy because the cat isn’t eating enough. This causes fat to build up in liver cells. The good news is this disease is reversible though intense feeding, and the survival rate if caught early is upwards of 90%.

Symptoms to look for:

Anorexia
Lack of appetite
Vomiting
Jaundice
Seizures
Drooling
Coma

Luckily, Kita was able to be treated for the condition and is bouncing back. It is important to remember that obesity is linked to many illnesses and diseases that can greatly affect your pet. It is important to keep your pets on a healthy diet and limit treats and table food.