Hyperlipidaemia

Hyperlipidaemia describes a persistent elevation of fats—chiefly triglycerides and cholesterol—in the bloodstream. In dogs and cats, this can occur as a secondary response to other conditions such as endocrine disease or pancreatitis, or in some cases as a primary inherited tendency. It may be discovered incidentally on routine blood testing, or it may be accompanied by visible changes such as cloudiness in the eyes, skin lesions, or gastrointestinal signs. Many animals with hyperlipidaemia show no outward signs at all, particularly in the early stages. When signs do appear, they vary widely depending on the underlying cause and the degree of lipid elevation. Some owners notice their pet seems quieter after meals, or that blood drawn for testing appears milky or opaque. This page explores the observable signals that may accompany hyperlipidaemia, the metabolic processes that lead to lipid accumulation, the investigations used to characterise the pattern and identify contributing factors, and the range of dietary and medical approaches that may be considered in managing the condition.