Pancreatitis And Your Pet: What Every Owner Should Know

3 min read

As pet parents, we’re always on alert for signs that something might be wrong with our furry friends. One serious condition that can affect dogs and cats—but is often overlooked until it becomes severe—is pancreatitis.

This inflammation of the pancreas can cause anything from mild discomfort to life-threatening illness, and it often develops suddenly. Knowing the signs, risk factors, and treatment options can help you protect your pet and act quickly if needed.

In this post, we’ll break down what pancreatitis is, why it happens, symptoms to watch for, and how prompt care (plus smart medication cost management) can make a big difference.

What is Pancreatitis?

The pancreas is a small but mighty organ that produces digestive enzymes and regulates blood sugar through insulin production. Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, causing those digestive enzymes to activate too early—essentially allowing them to start “digesting” the pancreas itself.

This inflammation can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (recurring, long-term), and it can affect pets of any age or breed.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of pancreatitis isn’t always clear, common triggers include:

• High-fat meals (e.g., table scraps, greasy treats)

• Obesity

• Certain medications (like some steroids or chemotherapy drugs)

• Endocrine disorders (like diabetes or hypothyroidism)

• Infections or trauma to the pancreas area

🔍 Tip: Even one high-fat indulgence—like raiding the trash after Thanksgiving—can trigger a flare-up in a healthy pet.

Symptoms to Watch For

Signs of pancreatitis can be subtle at first, but often progress quickly. Look out for:

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Abdominal pain (may hunch or guard belly)

• Diarrhea

• Lethargy or weakness

• Fever

• Dehydration

📣 If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately—delaying care can make recovery harder and more expensive.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your vet will likely recommend bloodwork, imaging (like ultrasound), and sometimes specific pancreatic enzyme tests to confirm pancreatitis.

Treatment usually includes:

1. Hospitalization for IV fluids to maintain hydration and circulation

2. Pain management and anti-nausea medications

3. Fasting (resting the digestive system) before slowly reintroducing food

4. Low-fat diet for recovery and long-term prevention

💡 Many medications for pancreatitis—like anti-nausea drugs (ondansetron), pain relief (tramadol, gabapentin), or antibiotics—can sometimes be filled at human pharmacies at lower costs using a pet prescription discount card.

Prevention Tips

• Stick to a vet-recommended, balanced diet

• Avoid giving table scraps or fatty treats

• Maintain a healthy weight for your pet

• Manage underlying health issues like diabetes or hypothyroidism

The Bottom Line

Pancreatitis is a serious but manageable condition—especially if caught early. By learning the warning signs, preventing risky dietary habits, and working with your vet on treatment, you can help your pet recover and stay healthy.

💵 Bonus Tip: If your pet needs ongoing medication after pancreatitis, search your prescription discount card’s website to find the lowest prices at local pharmacies. You could save up to 80% compared to retail pricing.