How to Manage a Cat's Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Like human beings, cats can suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). While this condition is not completely understood, stress is thought to cause or aggravate the symptoms. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is often confused with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. While IBS can be difficult to diagnose, it is usually not immediately dangerous. However, it is important to manage a cat's irritable bowel syndrome, since your cat is uncomfortable and distressed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Spot the symptoms. A cat with Irritable Bowel Syndrome may have diarrhea, constipation or both in turn. He may struggle to defecate, experience cramps and suffer some loss of control due to feelings of urgency when he has to defecate. His appetite may be affected and he may lose some weight. These symptoms can come and go. A single episode of diarrhea may be nothing to worry about, but it if keeps happening, it's time to visit the veterinarian.
2. Rule out all other diseases with similar symptoms. Your veterinarian may prescribe tests including blood work and urinalysis. If these are inconclusive, the next step is often a biopsy to rule out organ problems, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and other concerns.
3. Identify and eliminate or manage triggers of anxiety and stress. Most cats loathe change, so disruptions in schedule, moving to a new house, introducing a new pet or boarding the cat during a vacation can result in confusion and anxiety. Remember that your cat takes cues from you and other members of your household, so it is important to imagine situations from the cat's point of view and give her attention and reassurance.
4. Changes in diet may cause or alleviate the symptoms. As in human sufferers, additional dietary fiber may help. Consider switching to another type of cat food or add bran or another fiber supplement to your cat's diet. Ask you veterinarian for suggestions. You may need to try some different options or combinations to find what is right for your cat.
5. If the Irritable Bowel Syndrome recurs periodically, your veterinarian may prescribe an anti-anxiety medication or antacids such as Pepcid or anti-diarrhea medications such as loperamide to manage symptoms or to provide relief during a specific stressful event such as a move.

Tips & Warnings

• Many people confuse Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. These conditions are not mutually exclusive, but Inflammatory Bowel Disease has physical causes.
• Plenty of attention and affection will help your cat's level of anxiety.
• Untreated Irritable Bowel Syndrome can cause your cat to lose weight. Also her body's ability to absorb vitamins and minerals is compromised, so your cat can be vulnerable to weight loss and infection.
• A cat with Irritable Bowel Syndrome may someday develop a more serious illness that could be harder to diagnose because the symptoms are so similar. Keep an eye on your cat and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
• It can be difficult to recognize a cat's pain or discomfort. However, you are the expert on your cat's behavior. Watch for behavioral changes such as crying, restlessness, hiding or sleeping in atypical locations. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect your cat is in any distress.