Some dogs with abdominal pain stretch their front legs forward and lower their chest while their back end stays up. This is a warning sign.
Pancreatitis » Inflammation of the Pancreas in Dogs
Understanding inflammation of the pancreas.
At a glance
- What is it?
- Inflammation of the pancreas, acute or chronic.
- Typical signs
- Severe vomiting, abdominal pain, a hunched back, diarrhoea, fever, listlessness.
- Commonly affected
- Overweight dogs and dogs with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or a corresponding predisposition.
- Triggers
- Often very fatty meals such as table scraps, also certain medicines.
Interactive Symptom Check
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When should you see a vet?
Acute pancreatitis is an emergency. Go to the vet straight away with:
- repeated vomiting, especially together with abdominal pain,
- the “prayer position” (front low, back end high) or a strongly hunched back,
- weakness, fever, dry mucous membranes or noticeably little urine.
Pancreatitis is a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Typical signs are severe vomiting, abdominal pain and lethargy. Acute pancreatitis is an emergency and belongs at the vet immediately.
What is pancreatitis?
The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. In pancreatitis, the enzymes become active while still in the gland and attack its own tissue. This triggers inflammation. It can be sudden and severe, or flare up again and again in a chronic form.
How do you recognize pancreatitis?
- repeated vomiting and little appetite
- abdominal pain, hunched back
- “praying position”: front end low, rear end high
- diarrhea, fever and listlessness
What are the triggers and risk factors?
- very fatty meals, for example table scraps, barbecue leftovers or things found in the trash
- excess weight
- certain medications
- metabolic diseases such as diabetes
- genetics, more common in some breeds
Often, however, no clear trigger can be found.
How does the vet diagnose pancreatitis?
Through the examination, blood values including a special test for the pancreas, and imaging such as ultrasound. Because other diseases can look similar, this investigation is important.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the severity. It is usually about relieving pain, balancing fluids and stopping the vomiting. Severe cases need hospitalization. The vet decides how your dog is fed afterwards.
What you can do in everyday life
- Don’t give fatty table scraps and secure the trash.
- Keep an eye on your dog’s weight.
- After pancreatitis, follow the vet’s feeding plan exactly.
Frequently asked questions about Pancreatitis
What is the “prayer position”?
How is pancreatitis diagnosed?
Through an examination, blood tests including special enzyme values and imaging such as ultrasound.
How severe can pancreatitis be?
Anything from mild to life-threatening. Severe cases often need inpatient treatment at the vet practice.
Can pancreatitis come back?
Yes, it can recur or become chronic. Discuss with your vet what you can do to prevent it.
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Veterinary expertise at the heart of our team
Dr. med. vet. Sibylle Ott has been part of our team at DOG FIT by PreThis® from the very beginning. As an experienced vet, she supports our work professionally and contributes her knowledge of dog health. Her experience and her deep understanding of dogs’ needs are an important guide for us. She is a valuable treasure for our team and for the well-being of many dogs.
This content is for information only and does not replace advice from a vet. Our products are complementary feed for dogs. They do not replace a veterinary examination or treatment. If your dog has any health problems, please contact your vet.
