Occasional digestive issues in pets are common—a bout of vomiting here, a soft stool there—but what happens when it becomes the norm rather than the exception? If your dog or cat has frequent tummy troubles, they could be dealing with something more serious: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
At Norgate Animal Hospital, we often see pets who have been living with undiagnosed IBD for months—or even years—because the early signs can be so subtle. But once you know what to look for, it’s much easier to get your pet the help they need.
What Exactly Is IBD And How Does It Affect Pets?
IBD isn’t one single disease—it’s a group of gastrointestinal disorders that cause chronic inflammation in the stomach and intestines. In both dogs and cats, this inflammation disrupts digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to ongoing symptoms that can really impact their quality of life.
What makes IBD tricky is that the inflammation can be triggered by different things: food sensitivities, immune system dysfunction, or even a reaction to bacteria in the gut. But no matter the cause, the result is the same—your pet’s digestive system stops functioning normally.
Common Signs That Point To IBD
IBD can look a little different depending on whether it’s affecting the stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, but some of the most frequent signs include:
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Chronic vomiting (especially in cats)
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Diarrhea or frequent soft stools
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Weight loss despite normal appetite
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Flatulence or noisy digestion
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Mucus or blood in the stool
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Decreased energy or general discomfort
These symptoms can flare up and die down, which makes them easy to overlook at first. But if you notice a pattern, it’s worth bringing your pet in for a proper evaluation. At Norgate Animal Hospital, we take these signs seriously—especially if they’re recurring.
IBD Or Something Else? Why Diagnosis Matters
IBD can mimic other conditions like food allergies, parasites, or even gastrointestinal cancers. That’s why diagnosing it isn’t as simple as running a single test.
We typically begin with bloodwork, fecal tests, and imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds. In some cases, we may recommend endoscopy or intestinal biopsies to get a definitive answer. These tests not only confirm IBD but also help rule out more serious conditions.
Getting a correct diagnosis is critical to developing a treatment plan that actually works—and at Norgate Animal Hospital, we guide pet parents through every step of the process.
Managing IBD: What Treatment Looks Like
While IBD isn’t “curable” in the traditional sense, it is manageable. With the right combination of treatments, many pets go on to live long, happy, symptom-free lives. Common treatment options include:
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Prescription diets that reduce inflammation and support gut health
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Anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids or immune-modulating drugs
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Probiotics and supplements to support the digestive tract
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Vitamin B12 injections for pets with nutrient malabsorption
We tailor treatment plans based on your pet’s response, and regular follow-ups at Norgate Animal Hospital help us adjust as needed for long-term success.
When To Call The Vet—And What To Expect
If your dog or cat has been having persistent digestive problems—or if you’ve just had a gut feeling something isn’t quite right—don’t wait. IBD won’t go away on its own, but early diagnosis and intervention can make a world of difference.
At Norgate Animal Hospital, we’ve helped many dogs and cats regain comfort, energy, and appetite through compassionate and effective care. We know the signs to watch for, and we’re here to help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
To schedule an exam or discuss your pet’s symptoms, call us at 604-980-2222. Whether it’s IBD or something else, we’re ready to help your pet feel like themselves again.