our cat whiskers has all the symptoms of IBD and
we have 5 other cats and 2 dogs the vet we went to
didn’t tell us of and exploitory surgry untill
she was to week to do anything and we want to know
if any other animal could get it?
audra
La Porte, IN
I don’t understand your question perfectly, but I think you are asking whether IBD (short for inflammatory or infiltrative bowel disease) can spread from one pet to another. The answer is no.
IBD is a syndrome in which the intestines become chronically inflamed. Its symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight loss. It can affect cats and dogs.
IBD occurs when the immune system becomes hyperactive in the intestines. A hereditary (genetic) cause is suspected, although some experts have posited that certain bacterial or viral infections may contribute to the syndrome. In my experience, IBD is not contagious.
Several other conditions can cause symptoms that are similar to IBD, and some of these conditions are contagious. Comprehensive testing involving bloodwork, urine tests, X-rays, and ultrasound is frequently necessary to diagnose IBD and rule out other similar conditions. Definitive diagnosis of IBD requires biopsies of the intestines. Exploratory surgery generally is needed for intestinal biopsies.
IBD can be treated in some cases with dietary modification. Severe cases may require medications, such as prednisone, that modulate the function of the immune system.
If you have not already done so, I recommend that you seek further tests for Whiskers. An ultrasound exam performed by a specialist may be particularly useful.
Featured Image Credit: David Herraez Calzada, Shutterstock
