General Information
Cholangitis is an inflammation of the bile ducts within the liver. If the liver cells surrounding the ducts are also involved, the condition is called cholangiohepatitis. The disease is usually caused by intestinal bacteria that enter the common bile duct where it enters the small intestine and move upward to the liver. Conditions such as inflammation of the pancreas and/or the small intestine and gallbladder stones may also cause this disorder.
The disorder affects cats of all ages, and signs include decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, fever, increased water drinking, and drooling.
Important Points in Treatment
Cholangitis-cholangiohepatitis is a very serious disorder, and in-hospital treatment may be necessary in some cases.