Irritable bowel syndrome in cats can be a frustrating ailment to treat. Manifesting itself with chronic bouts of vomiting and diarrhea, feline irritable bowel syndrome most often occurs in middle-aged cats that have few other health problems.
Instructions
How to Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Cats
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your cat evaluated for feline irritable bowel syndrome. Your vet will weigh your cat and take some blood samples and a stool sample to check for parasites. Be sure to make a list of any unusual things that your cat might have ingested or any dietary changes that might have contributed to your cat's illness.
Reduce your cat's stress level. Just as with human IBS, stress can exacerbate your cat's irritable bowel syndrome. Move your cat's bed to a quiet spot in the house and limit the number of visitors to that area. Your cat will keep getting sick if she's constantly being disturbed.
Gradually change your cat's diet. Many cats suffering from irritable bowel syndrome have an allergy to ingredients in their food, so slowly changing to a new diet can help reduce IBS episodes. Try a food that includes new ingredients such as salmon or venison to help your cat's body better process nutrients. Start by removing a quarter of your cat's normal food and replacing with a quarter of the new food. Feed this mixture for a week, then gradually work up to half and half for a week and finally give your cat only the new food.
Keep a fresh supply of water on hand at all times for your cat. Many cats with irritable bowel syndrome suffer from dehydration. Having plenty of clean, cool water will encourage her to drink and keep her healthy.
Add a vitamin supplement to your cat's diet to help calm and stabilize her digestive system. Many cats don't get enough of the proper nutrients, which can lead to upset stomach and intestines, loose stools and vomiting after eating. Feline vitamins come in easily digestible liquid and powder form that are easy to give to your pet. Be sure they are specifically made for cats.