Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrition

Inflammatory bowel disease in cats requires careful nutritional management alongside medical treatment to maintain quality of life.

Key Facts

IBD in cats causes chronic vomiting, diarrhoea and weight loss
Dietary trials with novel or hydrolysed protein diets can identify dietary triggers
Some cats achieve remission with dietary management alone without medication
Long-term steroid treatment has side effects that must be balanced against benefit
B12 supplementation is often needed as IBD compromises its absorption

Welfare Considerations

Untreated or poorly managed IBD causes ongoing discomfort, nutritional deficiency and reduced quality of life. Tailored nutritional management alongside appropriate medical treatment significantly improves welfare outcomes for affected cats.

What You Can Do

Pursue thorough diagnostic evaluation including intestinal biopsy for chronic GI symptoms
Conduct systematic dietary trials under veterinary supervision for cats with IBD
Monitor B12 levels and supplement as needed in cats with chronic intestinal disease