Pancreatitis is a common condition that is often diagnosed at the veterinary practice. Here at Pawsome Vets, we know that it can be hard to truly understand information given to you in a consultation and we want you to be fully informed on your pet conditions.

So, let’s take a closer look at pancreatitis in cats and dogs, detailing its symptoms and treatment options.

What is pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas organ becomes painful and inflamed. The pancreas is located in the abdomen near the intestines and is responsible for producing hormones and releasing digestive enzymes. However, the pancreas is a delicate organ and can often become irritated, which can make your pet feel unwell.

Pancreatitis can flare up for a variety of different reasons. However, one of the main contributors is a high-fat diet. This can cause the pancreas to work harder with producing enzymes and it can actually start to digest its own tissues resulting in abdominal pain for your pet.

Whilst pancreatitis is most common in dogs, it can affect cats too.

Symptoms of pancreatitis in cats and dogs

There are a variety of different symptoms that cats and dogs can show when they are suffering with pancreatitis. These can include, but are not limited to:

  • Loss of appetite (anorexia)
  • Lethargy or depression
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain (hunched posture, “praying position” in dogs)
  • Dehydration
  • Diarrhoea
  • Fever
  • Weight loss

Cats can sometimes show different symptoms to dogs. These can include:

  • Reduced grooming
  • Hiding or withdrawn behaviour
  • Jaundice (yellow gums/eyes) in more severe cases
  • Weight loss over time
  • Intermittent inappetence rather than sudden refusal to eat
  • Mild vomiting or just nausea (lip licking, drooling)

If your pet has these symptoms, it may not mean that they are suffering with pancreatitis. If you are worried about your pet, it is important to contact us as soon as possible on 01623 203529.

Treatment for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis can range from mild to severe and every case is different. In some cases, we may be able to manage pancreatitis with pain relief and a low-fat diet at home. In more extreme cases, we may need to admit your furry friend for hospitalisation.

Common treatments include:

  • Placing them on a drip (fluid therapy)
  • Pain relief
  • Anti-emetics (anti-sickness drugs)
  • Nutritional support
  • Highly digestible, low-fat diet
  • Appetite stimulants (commonly in cats)
  • Feeding tube placement (in severe cases)
  • Gastroprotectants
  • Antibiotics
  • Treatment of underlying causes
  • Ongoing monitoring and long-term dietary management

Whilst this all sounds really scary, our Pawsome team are here to answer any questions that you may have. We know that you want the best care for your pet, so rest assured they are treated in a purpose built practice with a highly skilled team!

Our state-of-the-art veterinary clinic is designed to provide exceptional care for both pets and their owners, with a strong focus on comfort and clinical precision. We offer spacious consultation rooms, a fully equipped modern surgical theatre, and custom-built kennels to ensure your pet feels as relaxed and secure as possible during their stay.

On-site, we also have a dedicated veterinary laboratory, enabling fast and efficient diagnostic testing, alongside advanced imaging equipment to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

We aim to make every visit to Pawsome Vets as smooth, accessible, and stress-free as possible for you and your pet.

Is pancreatitis a serious condition?

Pancreatitis can be a serious and painful condition which requires immediate treatment. Many patients seen with mild pancreatitis can be managed successfully at home with oral medications, a low-fat diet and plenty of love and fuss from their owners.

However, in more severe cases your cat or dog may need to stay with us for a hospital stay. This is because the disease can cause dehydration, persistent vomiting, diarrhoea and a loss of appetite. In these cases, they may require stronger pain relief and continued nursing care.

Final thoughts

With pancreatitis, the important thing to remember is that early recognition and quick treatment can help pets to make a smoother, quicker recovery.

If you notice any symptoms or you are worried that your pet may be unwell, contact us as soon as possible.

At Pawsome Vets, we are here to support you every step of the way, from diagnosis through to recovery. We want to ensure that you and your pet receive the care, comfort and attention that you deserve!