Feline entzündliche Darmerkrankung
Also known as: IBD
Die entzündliche Darmerkrankung ist eine Gruppe chronischer Störungen, bei denen Entzündungszellen die Schleimhaut von Magen oder Darm infiltrieren und die Verdauung und Aufnahme beeinträchtigen. Sie ist eine häufige Ursache anhaltenden Erbrechens, Durchfalls und Gewichtsverlusts bei Katzen. Die genaue Ursache ist unbekannt, vermutlich liegt jedoch eine abnorme Immunreaktion auf Darmbakterien, Ernährung und andere Faktoren zugrunde. Die Diagnose erfordert den Ausschluss anderer Erkrankungen, und die Behandlung kombiniert Diät und immunmodulierende Therapie.
Quick facts
- Type:
- Immune mediated
- Typical onset:
- Chronic
- Body systems:
- Gastrointestinal, Immune
- Affected species:
- CAT, DOG
- Reference codes:
- OMIA:1687
Overview
Feline inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describes persistent inflammation of the digestive tract lining. It is one of the most frequent causes of chronic gastrointestinal signs in cats.
Causes
The precise cause is unclear. It is thought to result from an over-reactive immune response to gut bacteria and dietary components in genetically predisposed cats, with the normal balance of intestinal flora disrupted.
Signs
Cats show chronic or intermittent vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss and changes in appetite. Signs may wax and wane over months and vary with which part of the tract is affected.
Diagnosis
IBD is diagnosed by excluding parasites, infection, dietary intolerance and organ disease, then confirming inflammation with intestinal biopsies. It must be distinguished from intestinal lymphoma, which can look similar.
Treatment & Management
Treatment combines a hypoallergenic or novel-protein diet, anti-inflammatory or immune-suppressing medication such as steroids, vitamin B12 supplementation and treatment of secondary bacterial overgrowth. Therapy is long-term and individualised.
Prevention
There is no specific prevention, but consistent appropriate diet and early veterinary attention to chronic digestive signs improve control.
Sources & references
- Cornell University CVM — Cornell describes feline IBD as chronic intestinal inflammation causing vomiting, diarrhoea and weight loss, managed by diet and immunosuppression.
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Merck reviews diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease in small animals.
- OMIA
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.