General Information
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic (long-standing) disease of the large intestine, most commonly found in Boxers under 2 years of age. Its cause is unknown.
Boxers with this disease have repeated and long episodes of bloody diarrhea and strain to pass small amounts of semi-formed stools that contain blood and mucus. Although affected dogs remain in fairly good condition, they usually lose weight. Vomiting occurs in some dogs.
Important Points in Treatment
1. Various laboratory tests and radiographic (x-ray) studies are often necessary to diagnose ulcerative colitis of Boxers. Most of the tests are done to rule out other conditions with similar signs.
2. Relapses are common during treatment.