Suppose, out of the sudden, your cat started feeling a little off. It may seem confusing to you. You may think it's normal or there’s something more serious? If there’s a mild tummy ache, it is common and usually harmless. But if there’s a serious problem, your cat may show you symptoms.
Knowing such a difference can help you avoid liver infection in cats. In this post, we are going to explain some key signs of both conditions. Let’s read!
Signs Of Just A Tummy Ache
Mild Vomiting (Once Or Twice)
The initial sign of just a tummy ache is mild vomiting. Your cat may vomit once or twice. However, they may seem fine. It is normal because cats usually vomit when they eat too fast. They may also vomit if they swallow hairballs or try new foods. And when the vomiting doesn’t continue, your cat stays active and alert. So, if there’s mild vomiting, don’t worry!
Temporary Loss Of Appetite
The next sign of a tummy ache is a temporary loss of appetite. Are you noticing your cat is skipping meals sometimes? If yes, don’t worry! It happens when they are feeling a little off. They may show no interest in having food for just a day. But they still drink water and act normal. It can be a mild stomach upset. The cause of this can be minor changes in their diet.
Soft Or Slightly Loose Stool
In case you see your cat has soft or slightly loose stool, there’s no need to worry. It can simply be a sign of an upset stomach. Do you know why this happens? It could be a result of a new treat. Also, if your cat ate something unusual, soft stool can happen. Let us tell you the thing that can make you believe there’s nothing serious. It’s your cat’s behavior. You need to notice if it remains the same. This means the issue can be passed on.
Increased Grass-Eating Behavior
Is your cat suddenly starting to munch on grass? If yes, you may think why they are doing so, right? The answer is they may be just trying to settle their stomach. It’s very normal for them. Usually, cats eat grass when they want to pass hairballs. So, this behaviour is harmless. It can be a sign of minor digestive discomfort. You need to notice whether it is occasional or not. If it is, then there’s no reason to worry.
Excessive Meowing Or Restlessness
The fifth sign that tells you there’s just a tummy ache in cats is excessive meowing or restlessness. This may seem confusing at first, but let’s know the reason. When a cat’s stomach feels uncomfortable, they might meow more than usual. Yes. This is just their of showing that they are not feeling comfortable. So, in case you find your cat seeking extra attention or unable to settle, it can be mild digestive trouble.
Signs Of Liver Infection
Yellowing Of Eyes, Gums, Or Skin (Jaundice)
One of the most serious and obvious signs of cats with liver disease is jaundice. This appears as a yellow tint in the eyes, gums, or even the skin. It happens when the liver cannot properly filter toxins or break down bilirubin. Jaundice is not a minor issue—it’s a sign that the liver may be failing or seriously infected. If you spot any yellowing, take your cat to the vet immediately. Early diagnosis and providing the best treatment can make a huge impact on recovery.
Persistent Vomiting
Unlike occasional vomiting, persistent vomiting is a major red flag. If your cat vomits multiple times a day or continues doing so for more than a day, it may be a sign of liver infection. This ongoing vomiting usually includes loss of appetite, dehydration, and weakness. The body may be trying to expel toxins it can’t filter out. If the vomiting is severe or doesn’t stop quickly, your cat needs urgent veterinary care. Liver infections need treatment as soon as possible to prevent serious damage.
Lethargy And Weakness
Cats with liver disease often become extremely tired or weak. If your usually active cat is suddenly sleeping all day, avoiding movement, or showing no interest in food or toys, it’s a serious concern. Liver problems can make the body feel poisoned, leaving your cat drained and sick. Lethargy that lasts more than a day, especially when combined with other symptoms, should never be ignored. It’s a clear sign that something more serious than a tummy ache may be affecting your cat’s health.
Swollen Abdomen Or Painful Belly
A liver infection can lead to a swollen or tender abdomen. If your cat seems uncomfortable when touched on the belly, or if its stomach appears enlarged, it may be a sign of liver swelling or fluid buildup. You might also notice your cat walking stiffly or trying to hide. These signs suggest something internal is wrong. Swelling in the belly isn’t normal and needs quick medical attention. A vet can use imaging and tests to check for liver issues and start treatment early.
Dark Urine And Pale Stools
Hepatitis in cats affects how the body processes waste, so you may see changes in your cat’s litter box habits. Dark, tea-colored urine and unusually pale or grayish stools are strong indicators that bile production and liver function are impaired. These color changes happen because the liver is not breaking down toxins and bilirubin properly. If you notice this along with other symptoms like vomiting or yellow eyes, contact your vet immediately. Waste color is a clear and important clue in liver health.
Conclusion
When you know the difference between a simple tummy ache and liver infection, it can have a lot of positive impact on your cat. If the problem they have is small, then it can be passed on naturally or with some regular care.
But if the issues are persistent, like a swollen belly, you should never ignore them. Always remember, early intervention is key. Are you still unsure about your cat’s symptoms? Contact Atlas Pet Hospital to get proper vet care and treatment for hepatitis in cats.