What do yellow mucous membranes indicate?

• A. Dehydration
• B. Hypoxia
• C. Jaundice
• D. Anemia

Answer: (C)

Yellow mucous membranes indicate jaundice (icterus). This color comes from a buildup of bilirubin in the body, often due to liver dysfunction, a blocked bile duct, or excessive red blood cell breakdown. Bilirubin deposits in tissues like the gums and mouth, turning them yellow, while normal mucous membranes are pink. Dehydration usually makes membranes dry and tacky but not yellow; hypoxia causes a blue discoloration (cyanosis); anemia tends to make membranes pale rather than yellow. If you notice yellow gums or other signs such as dark urine, pale stools, lethargy, or vomiting, seek veterinary care promptly to identify and treat the underlying cause.