Inflammatory Bowel Disease

What is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?

IBD is the invasion of inflammatory cells into the intestine walls. IBD has many triggers, including parasites, bacterial infection, dietary intolerance, genetic factors, and abnormal immune response to bacterial antigens. IBD is a “diagnosis of exclusion,” meaning underlying conditions have been ruled out. IBD signs in cats can be similar to other diseases, such as hyperthyroidism, pancreatitis, or intestinal lymphoma.

What are common IBD signs in cats?

Early signs include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased or decreased appetite

Intermediate to advanced signs include:

• Weight loss
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Abdominal pain
• Distended abdomen
• Difficulty breathing

How is IBD managed in cats?  

Many approaches can be used to treat IBD. A low-antigenic, highly digestible prescription diet can resolve 50% of IBD cases in cats. Certain probiotics, used alone or in combination with a food trial, have shown promising results. Antibiotics can decrease intestinal bacteria, and the body’s inflammatory response to bacterial antigens. Immunosuppressive medications, such as steroids, are needed if the response to other treatments is poor. Protocols for treating low-grade intestinal lymphoma can also be used to treat IBD. Adding B vitamins, anti-nausea, or anti-diarrheal medication is often helpful. Discussing a personalized management plan with your veterinarian is important for the best outcome for your cat.

What is the prognosis for cats with IBD?

Many cats with IBD can live healthy and comfortable lives. Some may go in and out of remission from the disease, while others require lifelong medical management. Cats who are refractory to treatment, have an underlying disease, or develop intestinal lymphoma have a poorer prognosis. 

Management tips for cats with IBD

At-home needs include:

• Easy access to food and water, and a clean litter box
• Strict adherence to an appropriate prescription diet
• Consistency with any prescribed medications, which can be compounded for easier administration
• Monitoring appetite, vomiting, defecation, weight, and energy levels

For end-of-life care:

• Try to keep your cat safe and comfortable
• Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your cat’s quality of life with our scoring tool
• Track progression of their health with our calendar

In a crisis situation:

• Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat stops eating, develops uncontrollable diarrhea or vomiting, a distended abdomen, or difficulty breathing, or vocalizes in pain.

Before your cat‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our teleadvice service, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this difficult time.