Pancreatitis in Dogs
Whenever your dog is not eating well and is throwing up, there could be many reasons for it. You only wish this is a passing thing. Pancreatitis in Dogs could be the cause of such symptom. The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach, next to the first section of the small intestine. Dog pancreatitis happens when this organ becomes inflamed.
What causes Pancreatitis in dogs?
The exact cause of dog pancreatitis is uncertain to experts. We do know that some breeds, especially Schnauzers and Yorkshire terriers, are more prone to get it. It is also common in older dogs or those who are overweight.
But there are several factors that may contribute to the development of pancreatitis in dogs:
- Metabolic disorders.
- Some anti-cancer medication and antibiotics.
- Hormonal diseases such as diabetes mellitus, Cushing’s disease, and hypothyroidism.
- Dogs who eat greasy foods seem to be more prone to catching the disease.
- Surgery or trauma to the abdomen that could have affected the flow of blood to the pancreas.
What are the symptoms of dog pancreatitis?
Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs can vary from mild to intense. You would usually note some abdominal distention and lack of appetite as some primary symptoms.
The most common symptoms of a dog suffering from dog pancreatitis are:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Belly pain
Other symptoms you must watch for are:
- Diarrhea.
- Low energy.
- Labored breathing.
- Fever.
- Dehydration.
- Irregular heartbeat.
What should I do if my dog suffers pancreatitis?
If your dog has lost appetite and seems to vomit more frequently, you should check for other symptoms. When you take him to the vet, the doctor will try to determine what is the cause of the affliction. If the dog is on any type of drugs, he will suspend it.
It can be hard to determine what is the cause of dog pancreatitis and there is no clear treatment against it. Usually, the doctor will keep the dog off water and food for the first 24 hours. If the case is more severe, then the doctor will leave the dog in on IV fluids.
Here in Dogalize we have resources that will help you better detect any anomaly on your dog. Contact us for more information.