Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome in Dogs

Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease are often lethargic

Inflammatory bowel syndrome, most often known as inflammatory bowel disease, is a condition in which a dog's stomach and intestine is constantly affected by inflammatory cells. This illness is quite uncomfortable for the dog and can cause a variety of problems. Although inflammatory bowel disease can never be cured, it is often managed with the use of medication and special diets.

The Facts

According to Dr. Holly Nash of Doctors Foster and Smith, certain inflammatory cells, such as lymphocytes, plasmacytes and eosinophils, are typically present in the intestine of a dog with inflammatory bowel disease, also called IBD. These types of cells are present when the body experiences an insult or injury. The intestine or stomach of the dog is constantly inflamed and irritated, creating discomfort and other symptoms for the pet. The normal tissue of intestine with dogs that have chronic IBD often turns into fibrous, scar-like tissue. IBD can affect both the upper and lower intestinal tracts.

Causes

The cause of IBD is unknown; however, there are a few factors that likely contribute to the illness. Genetics, diets, infectious agents and immune system abnormalities may play roles in the occurrence of IBD in a dog. In addition, IBD is often the body's response to certain conditions, states Dr. Nash.

Symptoms

Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease typically display a variety of symptoms. PetPlace.com suggests that dogs with IBD usually vomit, have diarrhea, have blood or mucous in the stool, may strain to defecate and experience pain in their stomachs. In addition, affected dogs may have gas, a decrease in appetite, are lethargic and lose weight.

Diagnosis

IBD is typically diagnosed through a veterinary examination and testing. The doctor will likely run tests on the dog's blood that monitor the blood cells and the body's organ functions. The doctor may also take radiographs to view the thickness of the intestine and run tests on the dog's stool. However, the only definitive way to diagnose IBD is through a biopsy of the dog's intestine, states Dr. Nash.

Treatment

According to PetPlace.com, dogs with inflammatory bowel disease are typically given medication, along with food that is easy on the stomach. Antibiotics are often prescribed, along with medications that reduce inflammation, such as corticosteriods and sulfasalazine. In addition, the dog is often placed on diets that contain a protein and carbohydrate that the pet has never consumed before, such as duck or potato, with the thinking that the dog may be better able to digest these components. Several diets may be need to be tried before the appropriate food is discovered.

References

• Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in Dogs
• Pet Place: Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs