Colitis is a common pet health condition that can develop in both dogs and cats of any breed. This problem occurs when the colon or large intestine becomes irritated for one reason or another. In fact, there are many different things that can cause colitis including trauma, bacterial infections, internal parasites, allergies and giardia.
How Colitis Affects Your Pet
Fortunately, colitis is easily cured and does not pose any serious problems. In most cases, pets with this condition will experience varying degrees of abdominal discomfort, constipation and/or diarrhea. In severe cases, there may be blood in the stools, and the pet may become anemic.
Common Symptoms of Colitis
The symptoms your pet will exhibit if it has colitis will vary depending upon how far the condition has progressed. Additionally, the signs of colitis are quite similar to several other pet health problems. Thus, it is essential to take note of these warning signs and see your veterinarian if your pet begins displaying any of them. Common Symptoms of Colitis in Pets: Abdominal Discomfort or Pain, Constipation and/or Diarrhea, Vomiting, Blood or Mucous in Stools, Listlessness, Depression, Tires Easily, Anemia, Straining to Defecate and Excessive Gas.
Treatments for Colitis
Treatment for colitis is directed toward treating the underlying cause of the condition. If the cause is an inflammatory bowel pet disease, your veterinarian will recommend a high-fiber diet for your dog or cat. If bacteria was the cause for your pet’s colitis, antibiotics will need to be prescribed. In the case of allergies, antihistamines can help. Dewormers can help if internal parasites are the underlying cause. Ioperamide can help with your pet’s diarrhea, and antifungal medications may be necessary if there is a fungal infection present.
Breeds Affected
While any animal can develop colitis, it seems to be much more common in older pets, especially those over 10 years old. This is not a breed-specific pet disease. It can affect any breed of dog or cat, no matter how large or small it may be.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
