Pancreatitis Symptoms in a Canine

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas typically caused by the overproduction of digestive fluids, causing irritation, pain and, if left untreated, damage to your dog's pancreas. There are two types of pancreatitis: acute, with severe, sudden onset of symptoms, and chronic, which is milder but may require lifelong management to prevent recurrence. The exact cause of pancreatitis is unknown, but, according to the Canine Pancreatitis Guide, risk factors include obesity, high-fat diet, dietary indiscretion, hyperlipidaemia, hypercalcemia, corticosteroid therapy, diabetes and trauma. If you suspect your dog has pancreatitis, take him to your veterinarian immediately. Pancreatitis is usually highly treatable if caught early.

Loss of Appetite and Vomiting

If your dog refuses to eat her food, this is probably a sign that she is not feeling well, and it is one of the first symptoms of pancreatitis. She may vomit what little food is left in her stomach, or if her stomach is empty, she may vomit a yellow foam (bile). Don't try to force her to eat by offering her special treats. If it is pancreatitis, you will need to withhold food to allow her pancreas to rest.

Diarrhea

Like vomiting and appetite loss, diarrhea is another common sign of pancreatitis. The diarrhea is the result of your dog's digestive system not functioning properly and the likely presence of excessive levels of fat in his system. Pancreatitis will produce a thin, greasy, yellow stool.

Painful, Swollen Abdomen

Because of the inflammation in her pancreas, your dog's abdomen may appear swollen or may feel tight and bloated to the touch. She may also be in a great deal of pain; you may notice that she is standing with a hunched posture or acting as if it is difficult for her to move.

Lethargy

If your dog has pancreatitis, she is extremely uncomfortable. She is probably nauseated, dehydrated and in a lot of pain. She will probably just want to go to a quiet corner or to her own bed and lie down. She may appear depressed, tired or even afraid.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms of pancreatitis that your veterinarian will be able to detect are fever and dehydration. If pancreatitis is not treated immediately and allowed to progress unchecked, your dog may develop more serious, life-threatening symptoms including sepsis (full body infection), tachycardia, breathing difficulty, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and multiple organ damage.