What is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis in cats treatment addresses a common veterinary condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas and abnormal release of pancreatic enzymes into the abdomen. The severity of inflammation varies greatly among individual cats, resulting in symptoms of varying intensity. Some cats experience only a mild decrease in appetite, while others suffer from vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

The pancreas is a small organ located near the stomach and liver, serving two important roles:

• Endocrine function: regulating blood sugar through insulin and glucagon.
• Digestive function: producing enzymes needed to digest proteins and fats.

During pancreatitis, the digestive function becomes impaired. Digestive enzymes are released directly into the abdominal cavity and bloodstream instead of entering the digestive tract. This causes significant pain and general discomfort in the affected cat.

Pancreatitis may present as acute (sudden and severe symptoms) or chronic (milder but persistent symptoms). Generally, dogs are more prone to acute pancreatitis, while cats more often develop chronic forms.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis

Clinical signs vary, but symptoms in cats are frequently subtle. Common symptoms include:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Loss of appetite (partial or complete anorexia)
• Lethargy and dehydration

Physical examination may reveal no obvious abnormalities. However, as several conditions can cause similar signs, additional tests are required for accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosing Pancreatitis

Diagnosis relies on various tests, including:

• Specific pancreatic test: a specialized blood test conducted at the veterinary clinic.
• General blood profile (hematology/biochemistry): evaluates red and white blood cells, platelets, and assesses liver, kidney functions, and blood glucose levels.
• Abdominal radiographs (X-rays): help rule out other digestive diseases (foreign bodies, liver or kidney conditions, megacolon, etc.).
• Abdominal ultrasound: identifies pancreatic inflammation and assesses other abdominal organs to detect potential concurrent diseases.

The exact cause of pancreatitis in cats remains unclear, but several risk factors exist:

• Trauma
• Viral or parasitic infections
• Toxins or poisonings
• Bile reflux
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Hypertriglyceridemia or hypercalcemia

Pancreatitis Treatment in Cats

Pancreatitis treatment in cats focuses on four main areas:

Correction of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances

• Hospitalization with intravenous fluids for several days.

Controlling vomiting and nausea

• Administration of antiemetics, anti-nausea medication, and antacids.

Pain management

• Analgesics administered via injections or transdermal patches.

Prompt nutritional support

• Some cats resume eating on their own, while others require feeding assistance.
• If the cat refuses food, a feeding tube may be surgically placed into the esophagus or stomach for nutrition and medication administration.

In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed, particularly when a feeding tube is placed or when infection is suspected.

Prognosis and Follow-Up Care

Mild to moderate cases of pancreatitis typically respond well to treatment, though some cats can be more challenging to stabilize. Severe cases carry a more guarded prognosis due to potential complications.

Complete recovery without long-term consequences is achievable; however, chronic pancreatitis may lead to secondary health conditions, such as:

• Diabetes mellitus
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
• Hypocobalaminemia (vitamin B12 deficiency)

Regular monitoring and appropriate ongoing management can greatly improve the affected cat’s quality of life.