Pancreatitis – Unhappy holidays.

The holiday season is here. We love all the yummy foods that are part of the celebration . Our pets love them too. Unfortunately,  all those goodies can also cause pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis is commonly seen in both dogs and cats. It  can occur in either an acute (rapid onset) or chronic (slow and subtle) form.   Although small in size, the pancreas can cause serious illness. It is very sensitive and if irritated,  becomes swollen,  inflamed and painful.

Signs of pancreatitis in dogs include:

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea

• Pain in the abdomen

• Dehydration

• Weakness

• Fever

Cats may also experience the above symptoms plus:

• Weight loss

• Low body temperature

• Abdominal mass

• Paleness or yellowing of the gums and skin

Pancreatitis can be associated with:

• High fat diet

• GI illness

• Foreign body

• Over weight animals

• Garbage grazing

• Some drugs and medications

• Some types of  infections

• Cushing’s Disease, Hypothyroidism and Diabetes (dogs only).

• Breed disposition: Miniature Schnauzers, Terriers, Domestic Short Hair and Siamese cats

• Other factors

Treatment is generally aggressive and may include:

• Hospitalization

• IV fluids

• Anti-vomiting and anti-nausea drugs

• Antibiotics if needed

• Continued feeding if there is no vomiting.

It can be managed and sometimes avoided by the following:

• Restricted fat

• Weight loss

• No table food – ever

• No garbage grazing