Cholangiohepatitis in Cats

Cholangiohepatitis in cats describes inflammation affecting the bile ducts and surrounding liver tissue. The bile ducts carry digestive fluid from the liver to the intestine, and when they become inflamed, the normal flow and function of bile can be disrupted. This can happen suddenly or develop more gradually over time. Owners often notice a cat becoming quieter, eating less, or losing weight. Some cats develop a yellow tinge to the gums or skin, and vomiting or changes in thirst may also appear. The pattern and severity of signs can vary considerably, and because the liver is involved in many body processes, the picture an owner observes may be subtle or quite pronounced. This page explores the signals that may point towards cholangiohepatitis, what may be happening in the liver and bile ducts to produce those signals, how the condition is investigated, and the range of approaches that exist depending on the underlying pattern and cause.