Companion Animals

Companion Cat Inflammatory Bowel Disease Advanced Management

Feline IBD requires careful management balancing immunosuppression, nutrition, and quality of life over extended periods.

Key Facts

IBD and intestinal lymphoma in cats exist on a spectrum sometimes requiring biopsy to distinguish
Prednisolone remains the cornerstone of IBD treatment with chlorambucil added for lymphoma
Novel protein or hydrolysed protein diets address potential dietary antigen contributions
Long-term management requires regular monitoring for treatment complications

Welfare Considerations

Uncontrolled IBD causes chronic nausea, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhoea significantly compromising quality of life. Well-managed IBD with appropriate immunosuppression and dietary management can achieve good welfare outcomes for extended periods. Distinguishing IBD from lymphoma guides prognosis and treatment intensity.

What You Can Do

Work with your vet on long-term monitoring plans for IBD cats
Consider specialist referral for cats not responding to initial IBD treatment
Maintain a daily quality of life diary to support clinical decision-making