Inflammatory bowel disease is a common chronic condition in cats causing significant discomfort; advances in diagnosis and management have improved welfare outcomes considerably.
Feline IBD causes chronic discomfort — nausea, abdominal cramping, and altered eating pattern — that significantly impairs daily welfare. The diagnostic challenge is distinguishing IBD from small cell lymphoma, which requires biopsy. Many cats improve significantly on dietary management alone (novel protein sources like rabbit, duck, or hydrolyzed protein), avoiding the need for immunosuppressive medication. For those requiring treatment, prednisolone is highly effective but carries long-term side effect risks. Cobalamin supplementation is important in cats with malabsorption — B12 deficiency worsens nausea and appetite. Regular monitoring through weight checks, clinical assessment, and periodic blood work guides ongoing management. Many IBD cats live comfortably for years with appropriate management.