Overview
Treatment may consist of hypoallergenic diet and prophylactic deworming initially. Some cases do respond to this basic approach, while most require medications such as anti-inflammatory or immune-modulating drugs. A commonly selected medicine is called metronidazole, which appears to have many effects including immune-modulation, anti-parasitic and antibiotic. Cats hate the taste, and it is not without side effects, so veterinarians will discuss use of this drug thoroughly with their clients if they decide to include it in the treatment plan. Often a combination of drugs is prescribed.
Outlook
Cats with IBD are usually not cured, but often can be well controlled with appropriate nursing, dietary and medical care. Sometimes, IBD waxes and wanes with or without therapy. It may take a while to get the disease under control, and a few drug trials or dosage adjustments are often needed before control is optimized. The veterinarian handling the case will adjust therapy based on the individual needs of the patient, and based on the response to therapy. There is no magic bullet, but with patience, most cats will be controlled. Follow up assessments are an integral part of case management, so clients should be prepared to follow their veterinarians treatment plan and follow up visit schedule.