Feline irritable bowel syndrome describes a gastrointestinal disorder that causes chronic, although intermittent, diarrhea and vomiting. Loss of appetite and weight loss also may occur. Veterinarians diagnose irritable bowel syndrome with a patient history and physical exam. Some cats can be cured, while others experience recurrences throughout their lives.
-
Diagnosis
-
Veterinarians diagnose feline irritable bowel syndrome mainly by ruling out other diseases that can cause similar symptoms, such as kidney disease or pancreatitis. They conduct a complete blood count, or CBC, and other tests. They may perform an intestinal biopsy if the owner agrees to this.
Causes
-
Bacteria and parasites can cause irritable bowel syndrome in cats. Additional causes are protein hypersensitivity or allergies to fish-based foods.
Diet
-
Treatment begins with diet modification to rule out sensitivities or allergies. The cat should begin eating food that has never been part of its regular diet, which for most cats may include rabbit, venison or kangaroo.
Medications
-
Some veterinarians prescribe corticosteroids such as prednisone to relieve the bowel inflammation, and an anti-emetic to control vomiting.
Antibiotics
-
A veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics if the syndrome appears to be caused by bacteria.
-