TL;DR: Jaundice is a life-threatening medical emergency in cats signaled by yellowing of the skin or eyes and requires immediate veterinary intervention. Providing a clear photo in natural light helps the emergency team confirm the condition and prioritize your cat's care.
What is jaundice or icterus in cats and what causes it?
A yellowish tint to your cat's gums, the whites of their eyes, or the skin inside their ears is known clinically as icterus or jaundice. This color change is caused by the accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is normally processed by the liver. When the liver cannot function properly, or if there is an abnormally rapid breakdown of red blood cells, this pigment builds up in the body tissues, creating a visible yellow hue.
How urgent is it if I notice my cat has yellowing skin, eyes, or gums?
- Recognize that jaundice is a high-priority medical emergency and is never normal.
- Understand it often indicates severe issues like liver failure, hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver), toxin ingestion, or life-threatening anemia.
- Note that cats are particularly sensitive to liver issues and can decline rapidly without professional intervention.
- Contact an emergency veterinarian immediately if you notice any yellowing.
How does providing a photo of my cat's jaundice help the veterinary team with triage?
- Submit a clear photo of your cat's ears or gums to help the team during the triage process.
- Capture the photo in natural light to help the medical team confirm clinical signs that may be difficult to see under artificial indoor lighting.
- Provide vital diagnostic evidence that allows the staff to prioritize your cat's care immediately upon arrival.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Icterus, or jaundice, can manifest as yellowing of the gums and ears in cats, indicating hyperbilirubinemia. Common causes include increased hemoprotein liberation due to hemolytic anemia, ineffective erythropoiesis, or body cavity hemorrhage; bile duct occlusion or ruptured biliary tract; intrahepatic cholestasis; impaired hepatobiliary bilirubin processing; and sepsis. In jaundiced cats presenting with regenerative anemia, hemolytic disorders such as immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, Heinz body hemolysis, and hemotropic Mycoplasma infection should be investigated. Bilirubinuria is always abnormal in cats and warrants investigation. Bleeding tendencies may be notable within 2-3 weeks.
Chapter: Gastroenterology, Hepatology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 479)