Feline inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic condition causing recurring gastrointestinal symptoms. Long-term management requires patience and close collaboration between owner and veterinarian.
Cats with uncontrolled IBD experience chronic nausea, abdominal discomfort, and the exhausting cycle of vomiting and diarrhea. The condition causes weight loss, poor coat condition, and reduced quality of life. Many cats with IBD have been symptomatic for months before diagnosis as owners adapt to the new normal of a vomiting cat. Effective management dramatically improves quality of life and many cats achieve good control on long-term low doses of prednisolone or other medication. Dietary management with novel protein or hydrolyzed diets addresses potential food hypersensitivity components.