Caring For Cats With Feline IBS Or Frequent Hairballs

Caring For cats With Feline IBS Or Frequent Hairballs - WP
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Hairballs are caused because when cats groom themselves, they swallow some hair, which can become trapped in the stomach and build up. One of the simplest things you can do to help is to brush the cat daily – as this removes some of the loose hair, which will then not be swallowed by your cat!

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) refers to a condition comprised of several gastrointestinal disorders that causes inflammation and irritation on the digestive tract’s mucous membranes. It can affect the stomach, as well as the small and large intestines. ^[1] Cats have become one of the most susceptible victims of IBS due to a number of reasons.

The condition is often characterized by symptoms such as constipation, large bowel diarrhea, and frequent passage of mucus and feces. In some cases, cats may experience bloating, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. ^[2] Some cats may have difficulties in defecating, and may suffer from cramps. Appetite may also be affected, which can lead to weight loss. ^[3]

Diet intolerance is believed to be the primary factor that triggers the onset of IBS. Other factors may include abnormal colonic myoelectric motility and activity, deficiency in dietary fiber, stress, and changes in neurochemical and neural colonic function regulation. ^[4]

Pain and discomfort are common to cats suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome. However, it can be hard to recognize. Since cats cannot simply communicate how they feel, owners must pay attention to observe behavioral changes, which may include sleeping and hiding, crying and restlessness.

When diagnosed with IBS, a diet containing high fiber is highly recommended. A high-fiber diet helps in restoring the digestive tract’s normal bodily function. When untreated, the condition can lead to weight loss and infection because the cat’s body’s ability to absorb nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are put into compromise. ^[5]

With the advent of technology, many pet owners have resorted to modern pharmaceuticals in getting rid of irritable bowel syndrome. However, others still opt for more natural ways of treating IBS. Herbs such as licorice, marshmallow, and slippery elm are popular in treating IBS. These herbs contain a number of components which help in soothing pain and discomfort caused by the condition. ^[6]

Proper choice of food is also important in promoting the faster recovery of cats from IBS. Want to know what foods to feed your cats if they are suffering from diarrhea, frequent hairballs, and IBS? Visit this website http://www.naturalcatcareblog.com/2012/09/cat-foodsfor-feline-diarrhea-ibd-cat-throwing-up/ to discover valuable information on this topic.

References:
[1] http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/ailment/cats-dogs-ibs-remedies.html
[2] http://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_irritable_bowel_syndrome
[3] http://www.ehow.com/how_2079862_manage-cats-irritable-bowel-syndrome.html
[4] http://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_irritable_bowel_syndrome
[5] http://www.ehow.com/how_2079862_manage-cats-irritable-bowel-syndrome.html
[6] http://www.nativeremedies.com/petalive/ailment/cats-dogs-ibs-remedies.html