Jaundice in Cats: Why is My Cat’s Skin Yellow?

Jaundice in cats is the yellowing of the cat’s skin that is usually visible in areas with sparse or no fur. Yellow skin can be noticed inside the ears. Cats with jaundice may also have yellow gums and yellowish eyes (sclera – the white part of the eyes). 

Now why do the skin and eyes turn yellow? The yellowing is a result of the buildup of the waste products in the blood. These waste products, including bilirubin, are usually released from the breakdown of red blood cells (RBCs) due to infection or other causes. 

Bilirubin is a yellowish-orange pigment. When bilirubin is produced faster than the body can excrete it, it causes yellowing of the skin, gums and eyes in cats. And this condition is known as jaundice in cats.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Jaundice in Cats?

Jaundice in cats can be visually easy to detect –

• Yellow skin (ear – pinnae)
• Yellowing gum and eyes
• Inappetence (anorexia)
• Nausea and vomiting
• May have abdominal pain
• May show increased thirst and urination
• Weight loss
• Dehydration 
• Changes in the colour of urine and poop

In advanced cases, cats may show signs of mental confusion and incoordination. The buildup of the waste products can affect the central nervous system (CNS) including the brain and cause irreversible damage in very severe cases. 

What are the Causes of Jaundice in Cats?

Jaundice in cats can be caused by diseases or injuries of the liver. This is known as hepatic jaundice or intrahepatic jaundice. 

In most cases, jaundice is a result of other diseases or illnesses in cats. The infection or condition causes breakdown of RBCs resulting in high bilirubin and liver injury. Such cases of jaundice in cats is called extra-hepatic or prehepatic jaundice. 

We will break down the different causes of jaundice into 3 different categories – prehepatic, hepatic and posthepatic hyperbilirubinemia (hyper = high, bilirubinemia = bilirubin in the blood).

Prehepatic Hyperbilirubinemia in Cats: Common Causes of Jaundice in Cats

• Mycoplasmosis (Mycoplasma spp) 
• Cytauxzoonosis (Cytauxzoon felis)
• Babesiosis (Babesia spp)
• Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)
• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
• Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia (IMHA)
• Hypophosphatemia
• Transfusion reaction
• Toxicity from environmental toxins, food or drugs

Hepatic Hyperbilirubinemia in Cats: Common Causes of Jaundice in Cats

• Hepatic lipidosis
• Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)
• Amyloidosis
• Sepsis or SRIS (systemic inflammatory response syndrome)
• Systemic Feline Calicivirus 
• Drugs and toxins

Posthepatic Hyperbilirubinemia in Cats: Causes of Jaundice in Cats

• Cholelithiasis
• Extrahepatic biliary obstruction
• Liver flukes
• Triaditis 

Diagnosis of Jaundice in Cats

Bilirubin, yellow skin, yellow ear, yellow eyes (sclera), blood tests, biochemistry tests

In most of the cases of jaundice in cats, veterinarians will confirm jaundice after a physical examination. It’s possible since the sick cats will show yellow skin, yellow gums and eyes due to high bilirubin levels.

However, the extent of the liver injury or involvement can’t be confirmed via physical examinations. 

Blood and Biochemistry Tests

Diagnosing the cause of jaundice in cats takes multiple blood and biochemistry tests including a complete blood count (CBC) and liver function test. Veterinarians can check the report of the CBC to see if the cat has signs of anaemia, infection(s), too many immature RBCs in circulation and more. Liver function test shows the level of liver enzymes in the bloodstream of the pet. Higher liver enzymes signify stress on the liver. 

rtPCR for Haemoprotozoa

In addition to these tests, the veterinarian can also recommend diagnostic tests based on the other symptoms the cat is exhibiting which can include tests for Mycoplasma spp, Babesia spp, Cytauxzoon spp, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Calicivirus. 

X-ray and USG

Veterinarians can also suggest imaging tests such as X-ray and USG. These tests allow the doctors to see the state of the organs including blockages, fat deposits and internal inflammations.

It is possible for cats to have more than one condition that leads to jaundice. For example, a cat may be positive for Mycoplasma and has uncontrolled diabetes, which can both contribute to high bilirubin levels that leads to jaundice. 

Be sure to mention your cat’s health history, residing arrangements (fully indoor, indoor-outdoor), vaccination status, flea treatment plan and medications when taking them to the doctor for yellowing skin and pale gums. 

Treating Jaundice in Cats

The treatment of jaundice in cats always involves liver support medication (oral or IV). 

Nonetheless, it is not the main treatment. The main treatment depends upon the diagnosis. Each of the causes of prehepatic, hepatic and posthepatic bilirubinemia requires a different treatment approach. 

Jaundice in cats can progress rapidly and affect multiple organs. So, a complete and swift diagnosis is always necessary before starting the treatment. 

Can Cats Survive Jaundice?

Some of the treatments, when started early enough are effective. For example, treatment for haemoprotozoa. Other causes that are genetic and/or idiopathic can require surgery, constant care and life-long supportive care. 

Most cats with jaundice due to bacterial and protozoal infections can survive with proper medication, supportive care and nutrition. 

Nonetheless, the prognosis of jaundice in cats caused by biliary obstruction, amyloidosis, sepsis (SERS), IMHA, and transfusion reaction is guarded. 

FAQs on Jaundice in Cats

What is jaundice in cats?

Jaundice in cats is the yellowing of the skin, gums, and eyes due to excess bilirubin buildup from red blood cell breakdown or liver dysfunction.

How do I know if my cat has jaundice?

Look for yellow skin (ears, gums, eyes), loss of appetite, vomiting, weight loss, dehydration, and changes in urine or stool color.

What causes jaundice in cats?

Jaundice can result from infections (Mycoplasma, Cytauxzoonosis), liver disease, immune disorders, bile duct obstructions, or toxin exposure.

Can jaundice in cats be treated at home?

No, jaundice requires veterinary diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause.

How is jaundice treated in cats?

Treatment depends on the cause and may include antibiotics, liver support medications, IV fluids, surgery, or nutritional support.

Is jaundice in cats contagious?

Jaundice itself is not contagious, but some infections causing it, like Mycoplasma or FIP, may spread between cats.

What should I feed a cat with jaundice?

A veterinarian may recommend a liver-supportive diet, high in quality protein and essential nutrients, to support recovery.

Why does my cat’s urine look dark if they have jaundice?

Excess bilirubin in the bloodstream can cause dark, orange, or brown-colored urine.

Does jaundice cause pain in cats?

Some cats may experience abdominal pain, nausea, and discomfort, depending on the underlying cause.

Can kittens get jaundice?

Yes, kittens can develop jaundice due to infections, liver disease, or anemia from flea infestations or poor nutrition.

How can I prevent jaundice in my cat?

Regular vet checkups, vaccinations, flea control, avoiding toxins, and a balanced diet help prevent conditions that lead to jaundice.

Is jaundice in cats curable?

If treated early, jaundice can be reversed, but severe liver damage or chronic conditions may require lifelong management.

When should I take my cat to the vet for jaundice?

Immediately. Jaundice is a sign of an underlying disease that requires urgent veterinary attention.