Colitis

PET DISEASE AND ALLERGIES: COLITIS

Background: Colitis is an inflammation of the colon that is common to dogs. Colitis is responsible for approximately 50% of all cases of chronic diarrhea in young, large breed dogs. The causes of colitis may include inflammatory bowel disease, whipworms, and irritable bowel syndrome (a motility disorder often associated with highly-strung dogs).

Clinical signs: Dogs with colitis may suffer from chronic diarrhea or soft stool, straining to defecate (often mistaken for constipation), frequent release of gas, signs of abdominal pain and occasional vomiting.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis of colitis requires a complete physical examination to rule out possible other disease and ensure that the animal is not suffering from a malabsorption disorder. Your veterinarian will need a fecal sample to search for parasites, which may be causing the disorder. Depending on the clinical signs, your veterinarian may also recommend radiography (x-rays), colonoscopy or a biopsy.

Treatment: Treatment of colitis depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation. Pets suffering from parasitic infections may simply be given a wormer. Bacterial infections may require that the animal be placed on antibiotics for up to a month. Inflammation that has not been associated with an infectious agent may require longer-term anti-inflammatory treatment. Prescription diets containing high-fiber content may also be recommended to help maintain colonic health and encourage normal defecation.

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