Understanding Pancreatitis in Dogs

It’s important that all dog owners are aware of what pancreatitis is, its symptoms and how to treat it before owning a dog, as it’s not always easy to spot. Pancreatitis symptoms can be vague and easy to miss to start with, but in the most severe cases can in fact be life-threatening. 

Pancreatitis must be addressed by a vet as soon as possible. You should avoid ‘DIY’ treatments. 

What is pancreatitis in dogs?

Pancreatitis essentially means ‘inflammation of the pancreas’, which is very painful for your dog. The pancreas releases enzymes that aid digestion. When working properly, the enzymes become active once they reach the small intestine. However, in cases of pancreatitis, the inflammation causes active enzymes from the pancreas to spill into the abdominal cavity resulting in secondary damage to the liver, bile ducts, gallbladder and intestines. In some cases, the enzymes can start to digest the pancreas itself.

A few dogs who recover from an acute episode of pancreatitis (an isolated incident that develops quickly) may then go on to have recurrent bouts of the disease, which is then called chronic or relapsing pancreatitis.

Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs

There are several signs you should look out for to see if your dog has pancreatitis, including:

• They go off their food and experience repeated vomiting (either several times over a few hours or periodically over several days)
• Your dog is experiencing diarrhoea
• They’re experiencing pain or a distended abdomen (your dog looks uncomfortable or bloated)
• They have a hunched back or are constantly in a ‘praying’ posture
• They’re weak or lethargic

You should monitor your dog regularly if they’re infrequently experiencing one or more of these symptoms. If they’re experiencing several of these symptoms repeatedly, you should visit the vet quickly.

Dehydration and pancreatitis in dogs

Vomiting and diarrhoea caused by pancreatitis can lead to dehydration as the dog's fluid input isn’t keeping up with its fluid loss. In its most severe form, the diarrhoea may become bloody and as their condition worsens, dehydration will become an emergency.

If your dog is experiencing these symptoms and is lethargic, it’s important that you access emergency care.    

What causes pancreatitis in dogs?

Pancreatitis is extremely painful and you may be wondering ‘how do dogs get pancreatitis?’ so that you can help prevent it. Some causes include:

• A high fat diet - either the type of dog food they eat or human food 
• A history of dietary discretion (your dog scavenges): any high fat food, including chocolate, can lead to pancreatitis in dogs
• Genetics can play a part. For example, Miniature Schnauzers and Terrier breeds have a higher risk of developing pancreatitis than other breeds
• Other conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism can go hand-in-hand with pancreatitis
• Severe blunt trauma 
• Some medications can contribute to pancreatitis

How do vets diagnose pancreatitis?

When diagnosing pancreatitis, vets take into account:

• Your dog’s clinical signs and dietary history
• Blood tests that measure pancreatic enzymes
• Radiographs (X-rays) or ultrasound scans

How are acute and chronic pancreatitis different?

Acute pancreatitis develops quickly, often with no previous sign of the condition. If the inflammation spreads it can affect other organs and become life-threatening. 

Chronic pancreatitis develops over time and often with only vague symptoms to begin with. Your dog may experience repeated bouts of pancreatitis of varying severity, and you will need to work with your vet to find an effective regime to help control the condition.

Both types of pancreatitis can be very painful for your dog.

Treatment for pancreatitis in dogs

Depending on the type and severity of pancreatitis, treatment may include:

• A change to your dog’s diet
• Anti-sickness medication to allow continued food intake, which is an important part of treatment for pancreatitis
• Ongoing monitoring of the condition
• Severe cases may require hospitalisation for intravenous fluids, medications and assisted feeding

Longer term management may involve:

• Vigilant monitoring of your dog's fat intake and preventing scavenging
• A prescribed diet of low fat food
• Smaller, more frequent meals
• Regular check-ups with your vet

Insure your dog with K9 Cover

Are you looking for pancreatitis cover as part of your dog’s insurance? At K9 Cover we pride ourselves on offering the most suitable pet insurance for your dog. Complete our medical screening process today to receive a quote and more information on whether we can cover your dog’s pre-existing conditions.

FAQs

What is the prognosis for pancreatitis in dogs? 

Most dogs recover from acute pancreatitis without any long-term effects. However, with severe or repeated episodes of pancreatitis, your dog may be more likely to develop:

• Diabetes
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)