Hepatic lipidosis

Hepatic lipidosis, also known as fatty liver disease, liver steatosis, or hepatic steatosis, is characterized by the excess accumulation of fat in the liver. It is usually the end-point of untreated GI stasis. :312 Once hepatic lipidosis is established, fatty infiltration of the kidneys occurs and the rabbit goes into liver and kidney failure. :314

Causes
Hepatic lipidosis occurs most readily in obese rabbits because they have already accumulated triglycerides in the hepatocytes and in rabbits fed a high-fat diet. :313 Any rabbit that causes prolonged anorexia can result in fatty infiltration of the liver. :313 Pregnant and lactating rabbits also have an increased risk of developing hepatic lipidosis. :314

Treatment
Hepatic lipidosis can be prevented in anorexic rabbits by maintaining a positive energy balance with nutritional support and prompt treatment.