Ulcerative Colitis

What is Ulcerative Colitis?
This condition is also called Boxer colitis because it primarily affects young Boxers. The large intestine becomes inflamed and the dog develops chronic diarrhea to the point that he eventually loses weight. Ulcerative colitis has some similarities to Crohn's disease in humans.

How does my dog get Ulcerative Colitis?
Because it appears almost exclusively in one breed, it is believed to be from a hereditary condition that possibly affects immune regulation.  Inflammatory cells called histiocytes invade the intestinal wall, leading to widespread inflammation.

How do I know if my dog has Ulcerative Colitis?
In almost all cases, your pet must first be a Boxer.  Most cases involve Boxers under two years of age. If you notice your young Boxer has bloody, jelly-like diarrhea, and must defecate frequently, he may have Ulcerative Colitis. Your veterinarian will examine a sample of your dog's stools. You may be referred to a veterinary internal medicine specialist for an ultrasound of your dog's intestines or a colonoscopy with a biopsy of the intestinal wall.  A biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis

What can I do about Ulcerative Colitis?
Treatment consists of adding a fermentable fiber supplement to the diet, and of administering specific antibiotics shown to be most effective with this condition. This may be followed by corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs.  Some dogs may need lifelong treatment.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my dog from getting Ulcerative Colitis?
Do not breed affected dogs because of the probable genetic link. When choosing a Boxer, choose one from a family in which the condition is not widespread.

Are there certain breeds that get Ulcerative Colitis more often?
With extremely rare exceptions, the condition is seen almost exclusively in Boxers.