As cats age, they are at greater risk of developing certain diseases and conditions. For example, problems such as thyroid disease, intestinal disease and kidney disease increase with advancing age. However, when such diseases are diagnosed in their early stages, treatment can delay their progression or even reduce the risk of transition to neoplasia.

Inflammatory bowel disease or IBD is one such condition. IBD can occur in cats of any age, but tends to affect cats in their middle to later years of life (10 years and older.) Clinical signs vary, depending upon the location of the immune response. Cats with disease of the upper intestinal tract (small intestines) typically have vomiting, whereas those with immune lesions in their lower intestinal tract (colon) usually have diarrhea. Some cats with IBD manifest with chronic weight loss.

Early diagnosis is important so that the proper treatment can be given. Undiagnosed feline IBD is uncomfortable due to cramping, and without proper treatment, IBD can actually turn into gastrointestinal lymphoma. Ultrasound early in the course of IBD can be used to evaluate the bowel for typical changes and look for other causes of vomiting and/or diarrhea, such as feline pancreatitis.

Ultrasound is an effective tool for preventive care and early diagnosis.  Early detection is the key as it allows for more and better treatment options, and in the case of IBD, may save a beloved pet from a future diagnosis of GI lymphoma. Be sure to educate your cat owners because when it comes to IBD, an ounce of prevention (or early diagnosis and treatment) can really be worth a pound of cure.