Lipids are naturally-occurring fatty substances such as cholesterol and triglycerides. They perform a range of important functions in the body, including providing energy and maintaining cell membranes. Hyperlipidemia is a condition in which there are elevated levels of lipids in the blood. When this happens, pets can develop a number of serious and potentially life-threatening symptoms.
Causes of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia can be a primary or secondary condition. Primary hyperlipidemia is thought to be caused by genetic factors, and some breeds are predisposed to developing the condition. These include miniature schnauzers, collies, and Himalayan cats. Primary hyperlipidemia may also be idiopathic. This means that it has no identifiable cause.
Secondary hyperlipidemia is more common in pets. It is caused by underlying health conditions that affect the body’s metabolism. These include diabetes, pancreatitis, Cushing’s disease, and hypothyroidism. Hyperlipidemia in pets may also be caused by insufficient hormones that regulate lipid metabolism, or overuse of certain medications such as steroids.
Symptoms of Hyperlipidemia
Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of hyperlipidemia.
Diagnosis of Hyperlipidemia
Your veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of their symptoms. Please provide detailed information about your pet’s health and diet to aid the diagnostic process.
A thorough physical examination will then be performed to check for clinical signs of hyperlipidemia. Your veterinarian will also carry out diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, serum test, and urinalysis. These tests will help your veterinarian screen for underlying illnesses and determine lipid levels in your pet’s blood. In addition, other specialized tests may be recommended to reach a definitive diagnosis of hyperlipidemia.
Treatment of Hyperlipidemia
Pets with primary hyperlipidemia will be placed on a low-fat, high-fiber diet to manage their condition. Supplements may also be given to help lower lipid levels in the blood.
Treatment of secondary hyperlipidemia will focus on addressing the underlying illness. Potential treatments include insulin to manage diabetes or medications to treat conditions such as pancreatitis. Your veterinarian will recommend appropriate treatment options based on your pet’s overall health and the severity of their symptoms. Please follow all treatment advice closely and administer prescribed medications as instructed.
Prevention of Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia can be difficult to prevent since there are multiple underlying causes of the condition. We recommend feeding a healthy, balanced diet to support your pet’s overall health. It is also important to provide plenty of exercise to manage your pet’s weight and avoid feeding table scraps or other fatty foods. Finally, please schedule regular appointments with your veterinarian so your pet’s health can be continuously monitored.
