Dog Pancreatitis Treatment & Symptoms: Quick Guide

Section 1: What is Canine Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis in dogs primarily manifests in three forms: acute, chronic, and recurrent. The acute type can range from mild to severe. The mild form is selflimiting, whereas the severe form is progressive and can lead to serious complications, neither of which typically results in longterm issues or complications.

Section 2: Symptoms of Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include shock, decreased body temperature, abdominal fat necrosis, jaundice, peritonitis, sepsis, decreased bowel motility, acute oliguria, hypocalcemia, hyperglycemia, and respiratory distress. Chronic pancreatitis symptoms may include the formation of abscesses and cysts in the pancreas, fibrosis and atrophy, bile duct obstruction, and liver disease.

Section 3: Causes of Canine Pancreatitis

The causes of canine pancreatitis can include:

1. Obesity in dogs or a longterm diet high in fats.

2. Dogs with high cholesterol levels may also be at risk.

3. Hormonal therapy for sick dogs or hyperadrenocorticism.

4. Increased pressure within the pancreatic ducts, preventing the flow of pancreatic juice.

5. Pancreatic duct obstruction (due to duodenitis, colorectal tumors, or abnormal colonic motility).

6. Infections (such as ascending enteric bacteria, canine parvovirus, toxoplasmosis, or pancreatic flukes).

7. Trauma or surgery.

8. Pancreatic ischemia, hypotension, or embolism.

9. Hypercalcemia.

Section 4: Diagnostic Methods for Canine Pancreatitis

Diagnosis of canine pancreatitis involves:

1. Blood chemistry tests: These can help identify early signs and prompt early treatment.

2. Abdominal fluid analysis, biochemical tests, radiology, and fecal tests: These can be used to determine the presence of pancreatitis.

Section 5: Prevention and Treatment Measures for Canine Pancreatitis

Treatment usually requires hospitalization and intravenous therapy. In cases of severe vomiting, fasting may be necessary. Foods should be low in protein and fat, and in cases of open pancreatitis, surgery may be required. Dietary treatment should include lowfat, highprotein foods. For dogs with steatorrhea, pancreatic enzyme supplements and vitamins K, A, D, B12, folic acid, and C should be administered. Antispasmodics are often given to reduce pancreatic secretion. Pet doctors advise: For more information on canine pancreatitis, you can read "What Are the Symptoms of Canine Chronic Pancreatitis?"