Infectious Diseases of the Liver
Several types of infections may cause liver disease, including viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic disease.
Feline infectious peritonitis is caused by a virus. Infection leads to widespread inflammation in the abdomen, including the liver, and inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis). Jaundice, abdominal effusion, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever are common signs (see Disorders Affecting Multiple Body Systems of Cats: Feline Infectious Peritonitis).
The most common fungal infections associated with liver dysfunction are coccidioidomycosis and histoplasmosis (see Disorders Affecting Multiple Body Systems of Cats: Fungal Infections in Cats). If the liver is involved, signs may include abdominal swelling, jaundice, and liver enlargement. Coccidioidomycosis can be treated with longterm (6 to 12 months) use of antifungal medications. However, relapses sometimes occur. Histoplasmosis is often treated using prescription antifungal medications. Depending on the level of illness, the outlook for recovery may be poor.
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease that can cause acute liver failure due to liver cell death. The parasite is a protozoan, Toxoplasma gondii, that is found worldwide. Infection is more common in cats positive for feline immunodeficiency virus. Jaundice, fever, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea are seen, in addition to signs of central nervous system or eye involvement. The outlook depends on the severity of the illness (see Disorders Affecting Multiple Body Systems of Cats: Toxoplasmosis in Cats).