Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) in cats is a serious illness that must be diagnosed properly and treated to offer afflicted cats a comfortable life. IBD is a chronic inflammation of either the large intestine, small intestine or stomach lining. IBD symptoms can mimic those of several other conditions and diseases, and can therefore be tricky to diagnose correctly. Cat owners can track and monitor symptoms and provide that information to their veterinarian to assist in a correct diagnosis.
Things You'll Need
- Blank journal
Instructions
Identify the symptoms your cat is experiencing and document them in a journal. Common IBD symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea and refraining from eating and drinking. Note the time of day at which each symptom occurs, and how often.
If your cat is vomiting, note the contents of the vomit. Is it food regurgitated right after eating? Is it bile only? Vomiting food is a common symptom of IBD, and should be documented for the veterinarian.
Consult with your veterinarian before changing cat foods, even if you are only trying to get your cat to eat something. Vomiting and diarrhea can be caused by a food sensitivity, which can be made worse by switching foods. Whether your cat has IBD or another digestive-system condition, your vet will suggest specific foods for it to try that are unlikely to cause allergies or sensitivities.
Segregate your cat from others you may have if you believe she is not eating or drinking. It is important to ensure that the cat is drinking fluids, especially if she has vomiting and diarrhea. Cats can dehydrate quickly, and not drinking regularly can harm a cat's kidneys. If you cannot get your cat to drink water, take him to the veterinarian within 24 hours to receive fluids under the skin. Dehydration can invoke other symptoms not directly related to the IBD, and can muddy the diagnosis.
Weigh your cat at least weekly to determine if she is losing weight. Rapid weight loss can occur as a secondary symptom when a cat is not eating. Regardless of the cause of the loss of appetite, a cat must not be allowed to go without food for more than two days. Report rapid weight loss to your veterinarian immediately, rather than waiting to document more symptoms.
Start your cat on a course of prednisone or another corticosteroid if recommended by your veterinarian. IBD can only be definitively diagnosed by an X-ray coupled with an intestinal biopsy (both invasive procedures). If your cat responds to prednisone, you can rule out several other diseases and leave IBD on a very short list. Prednisone will decrease the inflammation of IBD and make your cat more comfortable. Your veterinarian should explain the benefits and drawbacks of long-term steroid use in felines.
Present your journal findings to your veterinarian and initiate a discussion about IBD. Documenting all of the details of the symptoms will help the veterinarian to reach a conclusion about your cat's illness. Making sure your cat is getting enough fluids while he is sick will make him feel better and expedite his diagnosis.