Gastrointestinal Disease - Gastroenterology in Cats

Feline Irritable Bowel Disease (disorder, or syndrome) are terms that describe a group of gastrointestinal disorders which display as inflammation of the lining (mucosa) of the digestive tract. Learn more about IBD in cats and how you can help your cat cope with it.

This Ask Amy column explains possible reasons for incontinent cats and no control of bowel movement, and why a vet visit is needed.

Although giardia is only found is a small number of cats, it can wreak havoc within shelters, catteries, and other areas where cats have close contact. Find out more about giardia, the symptoms of giardiasis, and its diagnosis, and treatment.

I have been using hairball food on my five cats with good results as far as the elimination of hair balls - I only get a few now and then compared to A LOT before. But what I would like to know is: does this food increase their elimination in the litter box more and does it make them eat more? Does it cause constipation?

My eight year old male cat appears to be constipated. He tries to use the litter box but no go. He is quite vocal and seems to asking for help as he constantly follows me around meowing! Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Despite using daily hair-ball remedy, he is vomiting at least two to three times a week. If I miss one day of this routine, he is guaranteed to vomit. I don't know what else to do. He has had a 4 lb. weight loss over the last couple of years. His geriatric feline profile is normal. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

My cat was playing with a string, then ate it. Should I just wait and see if it passes? Cats and string do not mix, despite the popular image of cats playing happily with string! Same goes for other string-like items -- rubberbands (many cats, including one of mine, just love to eat rubberbands!), tinsel, Easter grass decorations, needle and thread, and window blind pulls.

Rectal prolapse is most commonly caused by endoparasites in young kittens, but can be found in cats of any age. Manx cats are sometimes predisposed to rectal prolapse, according to Maxs House.

Symptoms of feline irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may include vomiting, diarrhea and/or constipation, and weight loss despite appetite. This writer believes IBS can be largely caused due to stress.

Vomiting and diarrhea can be symptoms of a number of diseases. This article by a U.K. veterinarian explains how the digestive tract works and how to look after your pet with an acute intestinal upset.