Gastritis (Inflammation of the Stomach Lining) in cats
- Occurrence: common
- Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis
Gastritis in cats is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms and can occur both acutely and chronically.
The most important facts at a glance
Gastritis in cats is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can be triggered by various factors. Common causes include eating spoiled food or toxic substances, as well as infections from bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can also damage the stomach lining. Long-term conditions such as food allergies, stress, or systemic diseases such as kidney failure can also lead to gastritis.
Symptoms include Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Weight loss, and loss of appetite. A thorough history is important for diagnosis, and blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasound may be used. In some cases, an endoscopy may be necessary to view the lining directly.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition and may include food withdrawal, easily digestible diets, and medications to reduce stomach acid. Antibiotics may be necessary for infections. The prognosis depends on the cause, but early treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery. Without treatment, gastritis can lead to serious complications.
For prevention, attention should be paid to a balanced diet, and access to harmful substances should be restricted. Regular veterinary visits are important to monitor the cat’s health. A stress-free environment can also help reduce the risk of stomach problems.
Causes
The stomach lining is an important protective layer of the stomach that prevents stomach acid and digestive enzymes from attacking the stomach tissue. Inflammation of this lining, known as gastritis, can be triggered by various factors.
The most common causes include dietary indiscretions, such as eating spoiled food or toxic substances. Infections from bacteria, viruses, or parasites can also irritate the lining. In addition, certain medications, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can damage the stomach lining.
Chronic gastritis can also be caused by longer-term conditions such as food allergies or intolerances. Furthermore, stress, such as changes in the environment or in the cat’s social structure, can play a role. In some cases, systemic diseases such as kidney failure or liver disease can contribute to the development of gastritis.
Symptoms
The symptoms of gastritis in cats can vary and often depend on the severity and cause of the inflammation. The most common symptoms include Vomiting, which can be acute or chronic. The vomit may contain food residue, bile, or even blood, which indicates more severe damage to the lining.
Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, Weight loss, and a general malaise or lethargy. Some cats show increased thirst or altered drinking habits. Diarrhea can also occur in some cases, especially if the gastritis is accompanied by a general gastrointestinal disease.
In severe cases, gastritis can lead to dehydration, especially if Vomiting and Diarrhea persist. This can lead to a deterioration of the general condition and, if left untreated, to serious complications.
Diagnosis
To diagnose gastritis, the veterinarian will first take a thorough history to identify possible causes and risk factors. Information about feeding, possible exposures to toxins, and the general health of the cat are important here.
A physical examination can provide indications of dehydration, Pain in the abdomen, or other systemic problems. Blood tests are helpful to rule out or confirm possible systemic diseases and to assess the general health of the cat.
In some cases, an X-ray or ultrasound of the abdomen may be necessary to rule out other causes for the symptoms, such as foreign bodies or Tumors. A definitive diagnosis of gastritis can be made by endoscopy, in which a small camera is inserted into the stomach to directly view the lining and, if necessary, take biopsies.
Therapy
The treatment of gastritis in cats depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In mild cases, a temporary food withdrawal of 12 to 24 hours can help to calm the stomach. After that, an easily digestible diet is often recommended.
Antiemetics can be administered to control Vomiting. Proton pump inhibitors or H2 receptor antagonists can be used to reduce stomach acid production and protect the lining. Antibiotics may be necessary for bacterial infections.
If a specific cause, such as a food allergy, is identified, it is important to eliminate it and introduce an appropriate diet. In more severe cases, hospitalization at the veterinary hospital may be necessary to administer intensive fluid therapy and conduct further diagnostic tests.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for cats with gastritis depends heavily on the cause and the responsiveness to treatment. In many cases, the prognosis is good, especially if the disease is detected and treated early. In chronic forms or if systemic diseases are underlying, the long-term prognosis may vary.
Without treatment, however, severe gastritis can lead to complications such as Stomach ulcers or a perforation of the stomach wall, which can be life-threatening. Close cooperation with the veterinarian is crucial to monitor the course of the disease and make adjustments to the therapy.
Prevention
To minimize the risk of gastritis in cats, it is important to pay attention to a balanced and high-quality diet. Avoid sudden changes in feed, as these can strain your cat’s stomach. A slow and gradual introduction of new feed types helps to avoid digestive problems.
Make sure that your cat does not ingest any incompatible or harmful foods. These include spices, fatty foods, and poisonous plants. Make sure that their access to potentially dangerous substances is restricted.
Regular veterinary visits are crucial to monitor your cat’s general health and to be able to react early to possible signs of illness. Vaccinations and deworming should be kept up to date to strengthen your cat’s immune system.
Stress can affect the health of the cat, so it is important to create a calm and safe environment. Provide sufficient activity and retreats to promote your cat’s well-being. A stress-free environment can help reduce the risk of stomach problems.
Finally, it is advisable to monitor your cat’s access to small objects or toys that could be swallowed, as these can lead to stomach irritation.
An interesting overview of gastrointestinal problems in cats, supplemented by information on the intestinal microbiome and the importance of probiotics, can be found here: https://petsvetcheck.de/fachbeitrag/magen-darm-probleme-bei-katzen/