Pancreatitis in Dogs & Cats

What is pancreatitis?

The pancreas is a small organ next to the stomach and small intestine. It makes enzymes that digest food, and hormones such as insulin that control blood sugar. In pancreatitis, the pancreas becomes inflamed, and its enzymes can start to damage the pancreas itself and the tissue around it.

Pancreatitis can be sudden (acute) or long-lasting (chronic). In dogs, a sudden attack sometimes follows a fatty meal or eating rubbish, and overweight dogs may be at higher risk. In many pets no cause is found. Cats often show only mild, vague signs, and in cats pancreatitis can occur together with gut or liver inflammation.

Signs to watch for

Common signs include:

• Vomiting
• Not eating
• Belly pain, or a dog stretching with its front end down
• Low energy, or a cat hiding more than usual
• Diarrhoea
• Fever or dehydration

In cats, poor appetite and low energy may be the only signs.

Which lab tests help

Pancreatic lipase tests made for each species are commonly used. The Canine Pancreatic Lipase (cPL) is for dogs, and the Feline Pancreatic Lipase (fPL) is for cats. They measure a type of lipase, a fat-digesting enzyme, made by the pancreas. A normal result makes pancreatitis less likely, and a high result supports it when the signs fit.

General Lipase and Amylase, Pancreatic Alpha, Serum tests are less specific. They can also rise with kidney disease and other problems, so your vet reads them with care.

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) can show inflammation or dehydration. A Glucose Random (RBS) checks blood sugar, because pancreatitis and diabetes can occur together. The Liver Function Test (LFT) and Kidney Function Test (KFT) show whether the liver and kidneys are involved, and Electrolytes, Serum (Na, K & Cl) help when vomiting has gone on for a while. The Comprehensive Vital Panel groups several of these tests.

Scans such as ultrasound are arranged by your vet and are often used together with blood tests. A registered veterinarian reads each result alongside your pet's signs, history and any scan findings.

When to see your vet

See your vet promptly if your pet vomits more than once, stops eating or seems to have belly pain. Repeated vomiting, weakness, collapse or a swollen, painful belly need a vet the same day. A cat that stops eating should also be seen promptly.

Testing in Bhopal

Pashupatinath Vet Lab is at C-200, C Sector, Shahpura, Bhopal, and its team collects samples free anywhere in Bhopal. Pet owners in other districts can send samples through their local vet, by courier or by bus parcel; call or WhatsApp +91 88175 01118 to arrange it. The lab confirms the method, sample needs and reporting time when you book. Reports come on WhatsApp, by e-mail and in My Reports on the website.