Cat IBD and Chronic Vomiting Welfare

Inflammatory bowel disease is a common chronic condition in cats causing pain, nutrient malabsorption and significantly impaired quality of life.

Key Facts

Feline IBD includes several conditions involving chronic gastrointestinal inflammation
Signs include chronic vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss and reduced appetite
IBD can be difficult to distinguish from alimentary lymphoma without intestinal biopsy
Dietary management using hydrolysed or novel protein diets is first-line treatment in many cases
Prednisolone and other immunosuppressants are used for moderate to severe cases
Cobalamin supplementation is often required as IBD impairs vitamin B12 absorption
Quality of life in well-managed IBD cats can be good with appropriate treatment

Welfare Considerations

Feline IBD causes chronic discomfort, pain and nutritional compromise that significantly reduces quality of life. Chronic vomiting is frequently normalised by owners as just 'what cats do', leading to delayed diagnosis and prolonged suffering. Early investigation of chronic vomiting, appropriate dietary management and monitoring cobalamin levels are the key welfare priorities. With good management, most cats with IBD achieve good quality of life.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary investigation if your cat vomits more than once a week - do not accept this as normal
Work with your vet to identify dietary and medical management appropriate for your cat's IBD
Monitor weight monthly in cats with IBD and report any decline promptly
Ensure cobalamin supplementation if your vet recommends it based on blood levels