What Is Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, which can disrupt digestion and affect blood sugar regulation. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and insulin. When these enzymes are activated too early, they can damage the pancreas and surrounding organs.
Pancreatitis can be acute (sudden) or chronic (ongoing), and severity ranges from mild discomfort to life-threatening illness.
Common Signs
Symptoms can vary by pet and severity:
Dogs:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain (may be hunched or reluctant to move)
- Lethargy or weakness
Cats:
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy or hiding
- Mild fever or dehydration
Because symptoms overlap with other conditions, bloodwork and imaging are often needed for a definitive diagnosis.
Causes & Risk Factors
- High-fat meals or treats (especially in dogs)
- Obesity
- Certain medications or toxins
- Trauma or surgery
- Genetics (some breeds are more predisposed)
- Concurrent illnesses like diabetes or kidney disease
Treatment & Management
Treatment depends on severity:
- Hospitalization (for moderate to severe cases)
- IV fluids to prevent dehydration
- Medications to control vomiting and pain
- Monitoring for complications
- Dietary Management
- Dogs: Low-fat prescription diet to reduce pancreatic workload (Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Low Fat)
- Cats: Highly digestible, low-fat diet to support the pancreas (Royal Canin Gastrointestinal)
- Medications
- Anti-nausea drugs
- Pain management
- Antibiotics only if infection is suspected
- Chronic or recurrent cases
- Long-term dietary management and monitoring
- Weight management
- Avoid high-fat treats
At Home Care
- Feed only the prescribed diet, no table scraps or fatty treats.
- Monitor appetite, vomiting, and stool quality.
- Provide fresh water at all times.
- Follow medication instructions carefully.
- Contact the clinic immediately if your pet shows vomiting, lethargy, or abdominal pain, especially if severe or sudden.
Monitoring & Follow-Up
- Recheck exams and bloodwork as recommended by your veterinarian.
- Adjust diet and medications based on clinical response.
- Monitor weight and body condition.
Summary
- Pancreatitis = inflammation of the pancreas that affects digestion.
- Early diagnosis and proper management improve recovery and prevent complications.
- Prescription diet, hydration, and medications are key to treatment.
- With careful monitoring, most pets recover well and return to a normal quality of life.
If you have any additional questions, please call us at 319-277-7675 or email us at [email protected]. We would be happy to assist you.