Mary Allen
Canine pancreatitis is a serious condition. A distinction is made between the acute and the chronic form, which is associated with different symptoms.
General
Inflammation of the pancreas, also known as pancreatitis, is a serious condition. The pancreas, better known as the pancreas, is a large gland of the digestive tract and is attached to the small intestine, spleen, and stomach. The main functions of the pancreas include the production of digestive enzymes and the production of hormones (insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin). Pancreatitis can be triggered by various factors. A high-fat diet, certain medications, local circulatory disorders (e.g. in shock or anesthesia), bacterial inflammation, hereditary predisposition, and trauma can lead to inflammation of the pancreas in dogs. Dogs of all ages and breeds can get pancreatitis.
What Symptoms Can Occur?
Depending on the severity of pancreatitis, symptoms range from mild to severe (up to and including organ failure).
Typical symptoms of acute pancreatitis include:
- reluctance to eat
- Vomit
- languor
- stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- increased body temperature
- Assuming the “Prayer Position”
Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis can include:
- languor
- weight loss
- Vomit
- Nonspecific abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should go to a veterinary clinic of your choice as soon as possible.
How Is The Diagnosis Made?
The precise clinical examination of your dog together with the preliminary report provides the first indications. After your veterinarian has taken blood, a rapid test is used to measure “canine pancreatic lipase”, an enzyme in the pancreas that increases when there is inflammation. A full blood count and blood chemistry will also be performed. Pancreatitis is verified on the basis of the clinical symptoms together with the blood and ultrasound findings.
How Is Pancreatitis Treated?
Since dogs suffering from pancreatitis are in poor general condition, they benefit from being admitted to the hospital. During this stay, fluids, painkillers, and medication are administered intravenously.
In mild pancreatitis, improvement occurs after just a few days.
In the case of severe pancreatitis, an inpatient stay of up to three weeks with intensive care is unavoidable.
One should keep in mind that even mild chronic pancreatitis can develop into a severe form and even lead to death.
What Is The Prognosis For Dogs Suffering From Pancreatitis?
The prognosis for acute pancreatitis depends on the severity of the complications. In dogs with organ failure, the course of the disease can be fatal, in mild forms, the chances of recovery are significantly better.
In the case of chronic pancreatitis, there is a possibility that lifelong therapy will be necessary. In addition, the diet should be changed to a low-fat diet.