Both our dogs and cats can get pancreatitis! This disease is the inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is an enzyme producing gland that is around the stomach and the small intestine. This gland produces digestive chemicals to help break down fat in their diet and also produces insulin.
Pancreatitis occurs from feeding table scraps (which are usually high-in-fat foods) or viruses. There also seems to have a genetic component as well. Schnauzers, for example, are more likely to develop this disease than other breeds. Do not, especially around the holiday with all the gravy and fat trimmings, feed your pets table food! Of course your pets love it, but their health and life could be put in jeopardy!
Symptoms of pancreatic disease include: lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, painful abdomen, or grunting when pick up or reluctance to jump up or climb stairs.
Pancreatitis can cause death! The digestive enzymes can cause damage inside the pets abdomen causing inflammation and infection. Plus, vomiting and diarrhea can lead to life-threatening dehydration.
Results from pancreatic episodes can include: diabetes, requiring life-long insulin shots, or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which means the pet can no longer properly digest foods so the foods cannot be absorbed.
If your dog or cat shows any of these symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, etc. please reach Cedar Heights Animal Clinic IMMEDIATELY!
Call us at (502)331-0360 for your pet’s medical care or for more information.