Clinical signs typically involve increased frequency of defecation with reduced volume. Often mucus and sometimes blood is seen in the faeces. Straining is another common feature. most animals remain in reasonable body condition and show no other signs of illness.

A range of bacteria have been isolated from these animals however none have been found on a consistent basis. The classical finding is inflammation of the lining of the gut with infiltration by a range of inflammatory cell types which suggests a broad allergic reaction to either food or bacteria.

Protozoa (small parasites which invade gut cells) infection damages the lining of the intestine and reduces the absorption of fluids. One of the most common protozoa of animals and humans is Giardia. Infection is via eating contaminated material. Most infected animals show no symptoms however some animals especially the young can develop intermittent diarrhoea and straining possibly with blood.

DIagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease can be very difficult as faecal tests and blood tests are usually unremarkable. Even Giardia only appear in around 20% of faecal samples from effected animals. Occasionally liver enzymes are increased due to absorption of liver toxins through the damaged gut. The best diagnostic procedure biopsy where a sample of the intestinal lining is taken for microscopic examination.

A range of treatments have been used for IBD however dietary management remains the primary therapy. Where the signs of IBD are more acute the animal is fasted (no food) for 2-3 days. This is followed by a low allergy (hypoallergenic) diet which uses a single protein and carbohydrate such as chicken as rice. The diet is maintained for 10 days before any changes are considered. If the diet has been successful other components can be gradually introduced. Where there is no improvement the protein and/or carbohydrate should be changed.

Other treatment regimes include antibacterial / antiiflamatory drugs which include: Sulfasalazine - combination of Sulpha drugs (antibacterial) and salicylate (aspirin family). Metronidiazole - antibacterial, anitprotozoal, and suppresses immune reactions. Tylosin - antibiotic found to effective in some cases mechanism unknown. Corticosteroids - these are generally on partial effective in controlling IBD and are mostly used in combination with other drugs. Chemotherapy has also been used in protracted cases with some success, Azathioprine being the most commonly used drug. Fenbendazole at 50mg/kg/day for 3 days has been shown to effective against Giardia.