General Information
Acute colitis is an inflammation of the colon (large bowel). Common causes include parasites, bacteria, foreign material (bones, garbage, plant material), and food allergy. Signs range from very mild to severe and may include diarrhea, blood and/or mucus in the stools, straining, painful elimination, weakness, reluctance to walk, abdominal pain, and dehydration.
Laboratory tests and radiographs (x-rays) are used to diagnose the condition and devise a treatment plan.