Pancreatitis is inflammation or infection of the pancreas. The pancreas produces insulin and digestive enzymes that enable your pet (or you) to digest and utilize food.
The symptoms of pancreatitis are abdominal pain (usually severe), nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and sometimes diarrhea. If the inflammation is severe enough that digestive enzymes are not being produced in sufficient quantities the stools may be pale and clay like in appearance. They can also be bloody or covered in mucous. If insulin production is effected, the dog will have a high blood glucose level, and may drink and urinate a great deal.
Pancreatitis can be caused by several things; some medications, viral infection, bacterial infection, and diet, especially diets high in fat. We see a lot of dogs with acute pancreatitis right after major holidays, because owners often "treat" their pets to some of the rich, high fat foods that we humans eat as part of our celebrations. Fatty meats like ham and bacon, rich gravy, buttery baked goods, and candies are often the culprits, especially if the pet isn't used to such rich, yummy food.
Depending on the cause, pancreatitis can be treated, usually quite successfully. Most often the dog will be fasted for a period of time to give it's GI tract and pancreas time to rest and recover. Then a bland diet is fed for a time. Medications and IV fluids may also be used.
Pancreatitis can often be avoided; don't give your dog rich, fatty foods.
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