The holidays are a time of celebration with family and friends. Often, these gatherings include a hearty serving of rich, delectable foods. While these dishes are fine for humans, you may want to avoid giving them to your pets. The veterinarians at Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic in Lincoln County, MO, explain why feeding your pet ultra-rich foods could lead to a dangerous condition called pancreatitis. 

A Veterinarian’s Guide to Pancreatitis 

What Is Pancreatitis?  

Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, is the most common exocrine pancreatic disease in pets. The pancreas is part of the endocrine and digestive system, which digests food and produces digestive enzymes and insulin. When the pancreas swells, the flow of digestive enzymes is disrupted. The enzymes are pushed out of the pancreas and proceed to break down proteins and fats in other organs. Because they are close to the pancreas, the kidneys, liver, and abdomen can be infected as well. If the pancreas starts to bleed as a result of the inflammation, it can cause pancreatic shock or death. 

How Is It Diagnosed? 

Pancreatitis can present several symptoms, including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, fatigue, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, and loss of appetite. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, take them to a vet immediately. The veterinarian will check for pancreatitis as well as gallstones and reflux. They’ll take blood samples to test for nutrient imbalances and X-rays to look for damage to the pancreas. Also, the vet will measure pancreatic and liver enzymes and insulin. 

How Is It Treated? 

Pancreatitis often progresses rapidly. Fortunately, if it’s caught early on, it’s highly treatable. However, if pancreatitis persists long-term without treatment, severe, permanent organ damage, brain damage, or death can occur. 

The vet will first work to manage symptoms and complications. In severe cases, they may prescribe IV fluids. Vigorous monitoring is essential, particularly in severe cases. They may also mandate resting the pancreas, or withhold food and water for 24 hours. Long-term treatment includes minimizing fat intake (no table scraps) and feeding a prescription, low-fat diet with smaller, more frequent meals as opposed to one large meal. You’ll also need to visit your vet regularly to have amylase and lipase levels checked. 

How Can You Prevent It? 

Pancreatitis can be caused by several different factors, including blunt trauma, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. However, it is most commonly caused by a high-fat diet or obesity. The best way to prevent pancreatitis is to avoid feeding your pet table scraps or other high-fat foods. As a rule of thumb, if it isn’t healthy for you, don’t feed it to your pet. 

Keep your furry friends healthy and happy this season by visiting your local animal clinic for a pet wellness exam. If you’re an Eastern Missouri resident, trust the caring and experienced veterinarians at Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic. Call (636) 528-4534 or visit the website for more information.