IBD vs Cancer in cats: Would you get an endoscopy or start steroids ASAP?

Hello there! I'm glad you reached out with your concern about IBD versus cancer in your cat. Both conditions can have overlapping symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and changes in appetite, so it can be difficult to tell them apart without further testing.



An endoscopy can be a valuable tool because it allows us to take biopsies directly from the gastrointestinal tract. This helps distinguish between IBD, which is an inflammatory problem, and cancer, typically involving abnormal cell growth. Starting steroids might help with inflammation typical of IBD, but they could mask symptoms or alter biopsy results, complicating a later diagnosis.



At home, you can help by ensuring your cat has a stress-free environment and a consistent, high-quality diet. Keep an eye on their behavior—lethargy, severe weight loss, or bloody stools are signs to visit a vet immediately.



Ultimately, the best step forward depends on your individual cat’s health and history. If your cat is stable enough, an endoscopy might be the best course to accurate diagnosis. If not, discussing the potential for steroids could be beneficial.



For personalized advice, I recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet professionals who can guide you based on your cat's unique situation.