Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is often confused with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as their symptoms are fairly similar. Most dogs that suffer from persistent vomiting are diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease. Along with vomiting, the dog may suffer from diarrhea. However the symptoms vary according to the severity of illness and the location of inflammation. Dogs suffering from inflammatory bowel disease exhibit inflammation of the stomach, the small intestine or the colon. Inflammation of the colon is also termed as colitis. In order to understand the difference between IBS and IBD it’s important to know the causes and risks associated with each condition.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Dogs
This condition occurs when inflammatory cells such as eosinophils and neutrophils attack the dog’s healthy cells and cause inflammation. If the inflammation is associated with ulceration, it increases the risk of developing certain cancers. Ulcerative colitis is one such condition that’s associated with colon cancer in pets. Although the true cause of IBD isn’t established various factors including genetics play a vital role. IBD may also develop due to Crohn’s disease. This disease involves the inflammation of various parts of the gastrointestinal tract. During diagnosis of IBD the vet will determine if the condition stems from ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease and recommend the appropriate treatment option.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The symptoms of IBS almost mimic those of IBD. However IBS is a syndrome and may result in inflammation throughout the pet’s body. Dogs suffering from IBS don’t develop ulcerative colitis or internal bleeding. However, if the colon is inflamed, it occurs due to various symptoms of IBS. In addition, IBS is associated with stress in pets. Dogs that engage in high performance activities are more susceptible to this syndrome. Since the dog’s autonomic nervous system works along with bowel movement, errors in communication between the two bring on the symptoms of IBS.
Symptoms of IBS and IBD Include:
- Constipation
- Stomach bloating
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Gas
Diagnosis
In order to differentiate IBS from IBD, the vet will perform various diagnostic tests such as complete blood count test and blood chemistry panel tests. These tests help determine the presence of elevated amount of enzymes and abnormal levels of electrolytes in the body. Although ultrasounds help rule out abdominal tumors, they aren’t as effective during the diagnosis of intestinal inflammation. Since the medication varies for the treatment of IBS and IBD, the vet will have to obtain an accurate diagnosis to administer correct treatment. To rule out IBD or confirm the same, the vet will perform a biopsy of the intestine to determine the presence of inflammatory cells.
Treatment of IBD
The treatment of IBD involves dietary modification. The pet may be placed on a hypoallergenic diet or food that’s low in fats. In addition, diets should contain good sources of essential fatty acids as they promote health. Apart from diet modification the vet will prescribe corticosteroid drugs or anti-inflammatory medicines to relieve inflammation. Immunosuppressive drugs are only prescribed if the dog is very ill and unresponsive to other medicines.
Treatment of IBS
Dogs suffering from IBS are fed diets that are easily digestible. In addition the pet may be prescribed antispasmodic drugs to bring relief from the symptoms of muscle cramps or abdominal pain. Since IBS is associated with stress, pets suffering from chronic IBS should be nurtured in a stress free environment. Although diet and medication work effectively in many pets, the response varies according to the pet’s age and underlying health concerns.
Dogs suffering from IBS also benefit from fiber in the diet. Pet owners should discuss with the vet, treatment options and supportive care that increase the dog’s quality of life and reduce the occurrence of IBS.