What it is
Amyloid is a protein folded the wrong way. The body cannot break it down, so it collects between the cells of an organ, layer by layer, and takes the place of healthy tissue. When it builds up in the kidneys, they filter the blood less well; in the liver, the tissue becomes fragile and can bleed.
The condition can run in families, and it can also develop alongside long-lasting inflammation elsewhere in the body. It creeps on slowly, so the first signs are easy to miss.
Day to day, it shows in small things: a water bowl that empties faster, larger clumps in the litter box, a cat that sleeps more and eats with less appetite. Keeping an eye on these habits gives your vet something useful to go on.
Signs you may notice
- Drinks more water
- Urinates more
- Eats less
- Loses weight
- Seems tired and sleeps more
- Pale or yellowish gums
A cat may drink and urinate more, eat less, lose weight and seem tired. Sometimes the gums look pale or a little yellow.
When to see a vet
Book a visit if your cat drinks more, loses weight or eats less than before. If it suddenly turns very weak or its gums look very pale, a vet is needed immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own cat's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.