Introduction
Colitis in cats is a condition that occurs when the colon, also known as the large intestine, becomes irritated and inflamed. This type of condition can be classified as acute, episodic, or chronic.
The cat’s colon is an important part of the digestive tract, and it is responsible for the last stages of digestion before the stool is eliminated. When the colon becomes inflamed or irritated, the stool can become bloody, loose, and watery. Cats that develop colitis often feel a sudden and frequent urge to go to the bathroom, and they may be seen frequently straining to go even though no stool is being eliminated.
Types of Colitis in Cats
Depending on the cause of colitis, the colitis can be acute, episodic, or chronic. Acute colitis occurs suddenly often with severe symptoms, episodic colitis comes and goes, and chronic colitis can last for many weeks with symptoms that generally appear mild and increase in severity over time.
Causes of Colitis in Cats
Colitis in cats can occur from a variety of causes including stress, parasites, protozoa, and underlying medical infections or diseases. Finding out the cause of the colitis is a key component of successfully treating this condition. A complete fecal exam, and/or blood tests, can be used to diagnose the cause of the colitis. In some cases, an endoscopy procedure or biopsy of the intestine is recommended.
Implications of Colitis in Cats
Colitis is not considered to be a serious medical condition, but it can be a painful and uncomfortable. Unresolved chronic colitis can cause ulcers to develop in the large intestine over time, and in these rare cases the condition can become serious if the large intestines are not able to function properly.