What does it mean if a cat has high AST in its blood? - briefly
A high level of Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) in a cat's blood can indicate liver damage or disease, as this enzyme is primarily found in liver cells. However, it may also be elevated due to muscle injury, so further diagnostic tests are necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
What does it mean if a cat has high AST in its blood? - in detail
Elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in a cat's blood can indicate several underlying health issues, primarily related to liver and heart function. AST is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, but it is most abundant in the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, and kidneys. When these tissues are damaged or stressed, AST levels in the blood can rise significantly.
In cats, high AST levels often suggest hepatic damage or disease, which could be caused by a variety of factors including:
- Liver toxicity from medications or ingestion of poisonous substances (e.g., plants, chemicals).
- Infectious diseases such as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), feline leukemia virus (FeLV), or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
- Pancreatitis, which can also affect liver function and cause elevated AST levels.
- Heart disease, as the heart muscle contains a significant amount of AST and damage to it will release this enzyme into the bloodstream.
- Muscle injury or inflammation, although this is less common in cats compared to dogs.
The veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and may order additional diagnostic tests such as abdominal ultrasound, urine analysis, complete blood count (CBC), and other biochemical profiles to determine the cause of the elevated AST levels. Treatment will depend on the underlying condition identified.
For instance, if liver disease is suspected, treatment might involve supportive care such as fluid therapy, nutritional support, or specific medications to manage symptoms and promote liver recovery. If heart disease is diagnosed, management could include medications to control heart rate or rhythm, reduce blood pressure, or address congestion in the lungs.
It is crucial for cat owners to work closely with their veterinarian to monitor AST levels over time and ensure that any identified health issues are appropriately addressed. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve a cat's prognosis and overall quality of life.