Colitis

Patients with colitis (inflammation of the colon/large intestine) strain to defecate and may have mucus and/or small amounts of fresh blood. Pets with colitis should still have a good appetite and energy level. If your pet is lethargic, not wanting to eat, or the stools are of a watery consistency, your veterinarian should be contacted immediately. Common causes of colitis are dietary intolerance (e.g.: new treats or type of food) and parasitic infections. Other causes include: infections (e.g.: bacteria, protozoa), inflammation (e.g.: inflammatory bowel disease, foreign bodies), and tumors. Diagnosis of colitis is based on symptoms. After examining your pet, your veterinarian will begin by testing your pet’s feces for intestinal parasites. Cases of chronic colitis may require further diagnostic testing such as blood work, fecal testing, and imaging (x-rays and abdominal ultrasound). Treatment for colitis includes identifying the underlying cause and treating specifically if possible. If a specific underlying cause is not found, pets may be treated with an antibiotic, a deworming treatment, and/or nutritional support to promote intestinal health and hasten the recovery process.

Have an Emergency?

If you are to the south of Old Hickory Boulevard, go to:
Blue Pearl Emergency
3020 Mallory Lane, Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 333-1212 Ext. 1

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)
* best choice for exotic pets*
2035 Mallory Ln, Franklin, TN 37067
629-235-4420

If you are to the north of Old Hickory Boulevard, go to:
Nashville Veterinary Services Emergency
2971 Sidco Drive, Nashville, TN 37204
(615) 386-0107



Location Hours
Monday7:00am – 5:30pm
Tuesday7:00am – 5:30pm
Wednesday7:00am – 5:30pm
Thursday7:00am – 5:30pm
Friday7:00am – 5:30pm
Saturday7:00am – 12:00pm
SundayClosed