What is pancreatitis in a dog?

Answer 1

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas caused by leakage of active digestive enzymes into the pancreatic tissue. This causes various clinical signs but most pets affected by acute pancreatitis have abdominal pain, depression and decreased appetite or lack of appetite. Vomiting and diarrhea occur in many dogs with pancreatitis. In severe cases of pancreatitis there may be signs of shock or total collapse. Chronic pancreatitis in dogs may occur, with similar but less severe symptoms. The signs of acute pancreatitis similar to those seen in dogs are not as common in cats and probably account for less than 25% of the cases of pancreatitis among felines. Cats are more likely to have chronic pancreatitis, characterized by a decrease in appetite, lethargy, loss of weight, chronic vomiting and low body temperatures.

For dogs there are two cornerstones to treatment for pancreatitis, control pain and control fluid and electrolyte disturbances. If these two things can be accomplished the prognosis for living through the pancreatitis improves a great deal.

Answer 2

Many dogs with pancreatitis often require hospitalization for shock and dehydration depending on the severity of there condition. They will require a lot of rest and nothing taking by mouth for a few days, which results in the need for an IV supplying them with electrolyte fluids. Medication such as antibiotics and narcotics for pain are typically given to the pet. If the dog does not respond well to treatment, surgery may be required to drain the excessive fluid from the pancreas. It all depends on the severity of the dogs condition.

Answer 3

Treatment for this disease is supportive, meaning that there isn't usually a direct cause and cure, but supporting the animal while allowing healing. Consult your veterinarian and they will take care of the animal's nutritional and fluid needs, pain management, and addressing any other disease processes (infection, Diabetes, etc.) while letting the pancreas heal on its own. Resting the pancreas and gastrointestinal system is key, and this means no food or water by mouth for 1 to 5 or more days. This is dependent on the severity of each case, and the animal must be on fluids and other support to survive and heal the pancreas while off of oral food and water.