IBS in cats, known as irritable bowel syndrome, is a severe and sudden episode of digestive upset. In this article, I, Ivana Crnec, DVM, will explain the basics of cat IBS.
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Content:
IBS Symptoms in Cats
Irritable bowel syndrome is common in humans. In cats, the more frequently seen form of the condition is called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), although the two terms are often used interchangeably.
The symptoms of IBS or IBD in cats depend on which part of the digestive system is affected and include gastritis (stomach inflammation), enteritis (small intestine inflammation), and colitis (large intestine inflammation).
Clinical signs of IBS in cats are:
- Diarrhea (with mucous)
- Painful pooping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Appetite changes
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Reduced energy
“At present, IBS is an under-recognized syndrome in cats,” says Elise Robertson in an article for the British Veterinary Association.
Learning how to recognize its signs can help with diagnosis. The Petcube Pet Camera is an excellent way of monitoring your cat while not at home.
Cat Food for IBS
Studies suggest that IBD/IBS treatment “involves both dietary and pharmacologic interventions.” The best diet for cats with irritable bowel syndrome is easily digestible, high in fiber, and low in fats.
Hypoallergenic cat formulas are a great option since they reduce gastrointestinal inflammation while allowing maximum nutrient absorption. Talk to your veterinarian if you are unsure which food to choose for your cat with IBS.
“Sometimes just a diet change to hypoallergenic food is enough in some cats to treat the issue,” encourages one Reddit user.
How to Treat IBS in Cats Naturally
Probiotics, dietary fiber (prebiotics), and stress control are the top three natural treatments for inflammatory bowel syndrome in cats.
- Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract and benefit the cat. Studies show that “probiotics improve cat gastrointestinal function.” Plain Greek yogurt, kefir, and raw goat’s milk are excellent natural probiotics (plus they are low in lactose).
- Prebiotics: Prebiotics or dietary fiber are carbohydrates that serve as food for the live microorganisms in the gut or probiotics. Chicory root, sweet potatoes, raw oats, lentils, beans, and flaxseed are some of the best cat-friendly prebiotic sources.
- Low Stress: Stress (caused by car rides, new family members, moving to a new house) is associated with IBS in cats. Creating a safe and stress-free environment helps prevent and treat irritable bowel syndrome episodes.
Natural treatments are great but not always enough to manage cats with IBS. Some cats require medical treatment, which entails corticosteroids (prednisone), cobalamin (B12 vitamin), and an oral chemotherapeutic called chlorambucil, alongside symptomatic drugs that control vomiting, diarrhea, and spasms.
Veterinary care is expensive. As a pet parent, consider investing in pet insurance or emergency fund. The Petcube Emergency Fund covers $3.000 in emergency vet bills, offers 24/7 access to online vets, and is available at a 27% discount via this link.
Conclusion
IBS in cats is an uncomfortable and annoying condition in which the digestive system becomes inflamed and malfunctions.
Irritable bowel syndrome is not immediately life-threatening but requires a multimodal treatment that includes natural remedies, diet modification, and medications.
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