Feline inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in a cat's gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This inflammation can affect any part of the digestive system, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
Symptoms of IBD in cats include:
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
Weight loss
Diarrhea
Gas (flatulence)
Abdominal pain
Rumbling and gurgling abdominal sounds
Bright red blood in the stool
Distressed coat hair
A veterinarian can diagnose IBD in cats by taking a detailed history, performing a physical exam, and running laboratory tests. An endoscopic examination with a mucosal biopsy is also essential to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the disease.
Treatments for IBD in cats include:
Diet
A change in diet can help some cats with IBD. This can include feeding the cat a commercial food with a new protein source or a hydrolyzed protein.
Vitamin B12
Most cats with IBD are unable to absorb Vitamin B12, so supplementation may be necessary.
Immunosuppressive medications
If dietary therapy doesn't work, medications can be used to suppress the inflammation. Corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment.
While IBD can be serious, life-threatening complications are rare unless the disease is severe and chronic.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease | Cornell University College of Veterinary ...
Feline inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a condition in which a cat's gastrointestinal (GI) tract becomes chronically irritated ...
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