Pancreatitis in Dogs & Cats: A Painful Inflammation
Pancreatitis causes intense abdominal pain and vomiting. Quick veterinary care and dietary changes are essential for recovery.
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas — the organ that produces digestive enzymes and insulin. In pancreatitis, these enzymes activate prematurely and begin digesting the pancreas itself, causing severe pain and systemic illness.
Key Points
- Pancreatitis is one of the most common gastrointestinal emergencies in dogs
- Dietary indiscretion — especially high-fat meals — is a leading trigger
- Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Shetland Sheepdogs are genetically predisposed
- Cats develop pancreatitis spontaneously, often alongside inflammatory bowel disease or cholangitis
- Treatment includes IV fluids, pain control, anti-nausea medication, and nothing by mouth initially
- A low-fat diet is required long-term for dogs; cats need highly digestible protein
How Pancreatitis Develops
The pancreas produces inactive digestive enzymes that normally activate in the intestine. In pancreatitis, these enzymes activate within the pancreatic tissue, causing autodigestion. The resulting inflammation releases inflammatory mediators that affect the entire body. Severe cases lead to pancreatic necrosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and multi-organ failure. Gallstones, trauma, certain medications, and hypertriglyceridemia can also trigger pancreatitis.
Clinical Signs
Dogs typically present with acute vomiting, severe abdominal pain (praying position with head down and rear elevated), restlessness, and anorexia. Diarrhea may occur but isn't universal. Fever and dehydration are common. Cats show more subtle signs — lethargy, anorexia, and weight loss are the most common. Vomiting is less frequent in cats. Both species may develop jaundice if the bile duct becomes obstructed by pancreatic swelling.
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian performs blood tests including a specific canine pancreatic lipase (cPLI) or feline pancreatic lipase (fPLI) test — these are the most sensitive and specific tests available. Elevated amylase and lipase are suggestive but not definitive. Abdominal ultrasound visualizes pancreatic enlargement, fluid accumulation, and necrosis. X-rays help rule out foreign bodies. CBC and chemistry assess dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and organ function.
Treatment & Prevention
Mild cases may be managed outpatient with subcutaneous fluids, anti-nausea medication, and pain control. Moderate to severe cases require hospitalization with IV fluid therapy, antiemetics (maropitant, ondansetron), pain medication, and nutritional support. Nothing by mouth for 24-48 hours allows the pancreas to rest. Gradual reintroduction of a bland, low-fat diet follows. Dogs require lifelong low-fat feeding. Cats benefit from highly digestible, moderate-fat diets. Avoid table scraps, fatty foods, and garbage access.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Your pet is vomiting repeatedly and cannot keep food down
- There's severe abdominal pain — your pet won't let you touch the belly
- Your pet is lethargic, dehydrated, or has a fever
- The gums appear yellow (jaundice)
- This occurred after eating a high-fat meal or table scraps
How RVC Can Help
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.