Symptoms of Pancreatitis in Dogs: Spot The Warning Signs

Do you have a dog that seems to be in pain or discomfort? Pancreatitis is a serious condition and the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs can range from mild to severe. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of pancreatitis in your dog so you can get them the help they need. Common symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy. Knowing what symptoms to look out for will allow you to take action quickly if your dog shows any signs of pancreatitis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for ensuring your dog gets the care they need as soon as possible. Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs.

What is pancreatitis in dogs?

The pancreas in dogs lies at the top of their duodenum, situated near both their stomach and liver. The pancreas is composed of two discrete lobes that meet together in a central area. The pancreas has two main functions: exocrine and endocrine. Endocrine functions are those that produce hormones such as insulin, while exocrine functions are responsible for producing enzymes to break down fats and proteins.

Most dogs affected with pancreatitis are middle-aged. Certain breeds of dogs, such as the miniature schnauzer, dachshund, miniature poodle, Cavalier King Charles spaniel, cocker spaniel, collie, boxer, and Yorkshire terrier, have been linked to an increased risk of pancreatitis.

The symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs can be acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis in dogs has an unknown cause most of the time. However, some factors are linked to fatal cases and they include being overweight, having diabetes, Cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, or epilepsy. Eating human foods can also increase the chances of developing pancreatitis.

Chronic pancreatitis in dogs is often idiopathic, meaning that the cause is unknown. It may also arise following recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis. English cocker spaniels are more prone to a form of chronic pancreatitis attributed to autoimmune disorders, which involve damage to the pancreatic duct.

What are the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs?

The symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs vary from mild to severe and dogs with chronic pancreatitis may have intermittent symptoms. Dogs with acute pancreatitis are typically affected with the most severe symptoms such as fever and collapse.

Vomiting

Vomiting is the most common symptom of pancreatitis in dogs, with an estimated 90% of dogs with pancreatitis showing this symptom. Vomiting may be intermittent at first but can become more frequent as the condition progresses.

Abdominal pain and discomfort

Dogs with pancreatitis will often display symptoms of abdominal pain or tenderness. They may curl up, become restless, or pace around trying to find a comfortable position. Additionally, dogs with abdominal pain may have an arched back and display a stance in which their legs are stretched forward and the hind end is raised up.

Lack of appetite (anorexia)

Another one of the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs is anorexia or lack of appetite. Pancreatitis can cause nausea in dogs which can lead to a suppressed appetite. Also, pain associated with pancreatitis can also limit a dog's ability to eat properly as they may find even soft foods difficult to consume.

Lethargy and weakness

Lethargy and weakness are common symptoms in dogs with pancreatitis. The inflammation of the pancreas can cause pain and discomfort, making it difficult for dogs to be as active as they normally would be. Additionally, the digestive problems associated with pancreatitis can lead to dehydration and malnutrition, further reducing a dog's energy levels.

Blood in vomit and/or stool (hematemesis/hematochezia)

The presence of blood in the vomit and/or stool of dogs with pancreatitis can be caused by the inflammation of the pancreas leading to irritation and damage to the digestive tract. As the inflammation spreads to the nearby organs and tissues, it can cause ulcerations and bleeding, leading to the presence of blood in the vomit and/or stool.

Fever

In severe cases, fever can be one of the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs. Fever is usually present in dogs with acute pancreatitis as the body deals with significant inflammation of the pancreas.

It's important to note that not all dogs with pancreatitis will show all of these symptoms, and some dogs may only exhibit mild symptoms. If you suspect your dog may be affected by pancreatitis, it's important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

How is pancreatitis in dogs diagnosed?

The diagnosis of pancreatitis in dogs usually involves a physical examination, comprehensive blood panel, and abdominal ultrasound.

Physical examination: Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination of your dog, including a thorough examination of the abdomen, to check for signs of abdominal pain and to rule out any other underlying conditions.

Blood tests: Blood tests can be used to measure the levels of pancreatic enzymes such as canine-specific lipase (cPL) and other substances in the blood, which can indicate inflammation and damage to the pancreas.

Abdominal ultrasound: This can be used to confirm the presence of any pancreas abnormalities. This will also be able to detect if there are any comorbidities present (i.e. diseases of other areas) that may be contributing to the symptoms.

What are the treatment options for dogs with pancreatitis?

Treatment for pancreatitis in dogs typically involves managing the symptoms and addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation. The specific treatment plan will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause of pancreatitis, but may include the following:

Hospitalization: Dogs with severe pancreatitis may require hospitalization for supportive care, including fluid therapy, pain management, and monitoring of vital signs.

Diet: Your veterinarian may recommend a low-fat diet to help reduce the workload on the pancreas and prevent further inflammation.

Medications: Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage symptoms such as pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Antibiotics may also be indicated if your veterinarian suspects that an infection is present.

Fluid therapy: Dogs with pancreatitis may require fluid therapy to help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.

Pain management: Pain management is an important aspect of treatment for dogs with pancreatitis, and may include the use of pain medications, such as opioids and anti-inflammatory drugs.

It's important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for your dog. With proper treatment and management, many dogs with pancreatitis are able to recover and lead healthy, active lives. However, in severe cases, pancreatitis can be life-threatening and may result in permanent damage to the pancreas, so prompt veterinary care is crucial.

In conclusion, pancreatitis in dogs can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. It's important for dog owners to be aware of the symptoms of pancreatitis, which can include vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy, weakness, abdominal pain, and potentially, blood in the vomit and/or stool. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing this condition and improving the prognosis for affected dogs. If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from pancreatitis, it's important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. With proper treatment and management, many dogs are able to recover and lead healthy, active lives. If you have any questions or concerns, it's best to contact your veterinarian.