Treatment for High ALT & AST Levels From Steroids in Cats

Steroids are sometimes necessary for treating illnesses in cats. Unfortunately, they can cause considerable liver damage if not prescribed and administered properly. In some animals, steroids can cause damage no matter how carefully they are administered. Your cat's veterinarian may do blood screening to check for elevated liver enzymes, ALT (Alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase), if your cat must take steroids.

  1. Diagnostic Testing

    • The veterinarian will consider your cat's overall condition.

      Once elevated blood levels of ALT and AST have been noted, the veterinarian will need to do other tests to confirm liver injury and to determine the extent of the damage. Your cat's veterinarian will decide which tests are needed based on his experience, your cat's condition and the blood levels. The tests may include ultrasound, X-ray, a blood count, serological tests (various tests on the blood serum), a thyroid test or a liver biopsy.

    Hospitalization

    • Hospitalization, with surgery or oxygen may be necessary.

      Many cats with liver injury or disease will require supportive care in a hospital. Supportive care includes administration of fluids, oxygen, and medications. If your cat is showing mild liver damage, the veterinarian may provide fluids and other treatment in the office and then allow the cat to recuperate at home.

    Treatment at Home

    • Proper home care makes a big difference.

      When your cat is stable enough to be released to your care, it will need a supportive diet, close monitoring and careful attention to the administration of prescribed medications. Typically, a high-quality, low-protein prescription diet is needed. You may be able to provide the proper diet without buying the prescription version, but discuss the possibilities with the vet and then follow the plan meticulously. Some vets recommend an organic diet for cats with liver damage. Medications will likely be necessary, but in small doses on a strict schedule. Failure to follow the prescribed directions will cause further liver damage to your cat. Check the house carefully and dispose of any toxins, such as houseplants, poisons, medications or foods that are toxic to cats.

    Considerations

    • Liver injury or disease is a serious issue, but proper and quick care saves lives. The liver has the ability to regenerate dead cells, and so recovery is certainly possible. On the other hand, the liver is responsible for ridding the body of all toxins, whether from food, medicines or environmental attacks, and so you must be vigilant at all times about the care of your cat. Keep your cat indoors, and keep the environment free of any toxins. Notify the veterinarian if your cat doesn't want to eat, even for one day.