Distinguishing feline IBD from small cell lymphoma requires biopsy; accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment and welfare-centered management.
The diagnostic challenge of IBD versus lymphoma directly affects welfare outcomes. Cats with lymphoma misdiagnosed as IBD receive suboptimal treatment and deteriorate faster than necessary. Cats with IBD unnecessarily exposed to chemotherapy agents experience avoidable side effects. The investment in accurate biopsy-based diagnosis is directly welfare-positive regardless of which condition is found.