Senior Cat Comfort & Care

When a cat’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract is chronically irritated and inflamed, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the result. It usually affects the stomach and/or small intestines, but any part of the GI tract can be affected.

The cause is unknown, but recent evidence suggests it’s the result of a complex and abnormal interaction between the immune system, diet, gut microbiome, and other environmental factors.

Symptoms are based on what areas of the GI tract are affected. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, bloody poop, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If the large intestines are affected, you may see small amounts of poop containing mucus and blood, passed frequently. Your cat may strain painfully to poop with no results when the large intestines are affected.

Diagnosis is often difficult because there can be many different causes.

Treatment involves dietary management, treating intestinal parasites, immunosuppressive medications, and antibiotics. Routine monitoring is essential.

While the condition can come and go, it can be controlled with proper management, and your cat can live comfortably and healthily.