Pet Pancreatitis Treatment Near You in Westwood & Pompton Lakes, New Jersey

Sometimes, subtle changes in your pet’s behavior are a warning sign for deeper underlying issues. If your dog or cat is acting lethargic, refusing food, or throwing up frequently, they might be suffering from digestive discomfort caused by pet pancreatitis.

At Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital and Pompton Lakes Animal Hospital, we provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options for pets near you in Westwood and Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. Our caring and compassionate veterinarians offer individualized care for a full range of gastrointestinal issues in pets, including pet pancreatitis, to help your beloved pet feel better.

What Is Pet Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas, a small gland located between the stomach, gallbladder, and liver, becomes inflamed. It produces enzymes that break down sugars and fats. Normally, these enzymes activate when they reach the small intestine, where they assist with digestion. In pets with pancreatitis, the enzymes activate too soon. They start breaking down tissues in and around the pancreas, causing damage and irritation.

The most common cause of pancreatitis is a high-fat diet. Even one large serving of fatty food can be enough to trigger a pancreatitis attack. Other causes include:

Obesity
A history of dietary indiscretion
Hypothyroidism
Diabetes
Severe blunt trauma
Certain medications
Certain toxins

Identifying the cause of pancreatitis is crucial for planning an appropriate treatment. If your pet is displaying symptoms of digestive trouble, you should always have them evaluated by a trusted veterinarian.

What Are the Signs of Pancreatitis in Dogs and Cats?

Pancreatitis causes similar symptoms in both dogs and cats. Owners may notice the following symptoms:

Repeated vomiting
Lethargy
Reduced appetite
Refusal to eat
Diarrhea
Weight loss

Additionally, dogs may have a distended or bloated abdomen. They may also assume the “prayer” position, where their front end is lowered and their rear raised, to relieve discomfort. In cats, meanwhile, the eyes and gums may become yellowed.

How Is Pancreatitis in Pets Diagnosed?

There is no one test to diagnose pancreatitis. Instead, Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital and Pompton Lakes Animal Hospital utilizes a full range of diagnostic methods to rule out possibilities before arriving at an accurate diagnosis. We begin with a comprehensive physical exam and a discussion of your pet’s health history, diet, and recent activity. Our veterinarians then request diagnostic tests, such as:

Fecal testing
Bloodwork
X-rays
Ultrasounds
Pancreatic biopsies

The combination of results allows us to pinpoint the cause of your pet’s symptoms. They also help us assess your pet’s overall health, identify other conditions that might be contributing to their illness, and detect issues that might interfere with treatment. This information helps us design an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your pet’s unique needs.

What Are the Treatments for Pet Pancreatitis?

Every pet is unique, and the same condition can have multiple different causes. For this reason, treatment plans are always individualized. Our team develops a tailored approach that works to relieve symptoms while addressing their underlying causes. The methods we may employ include:

Dietary Adjustments

A bland, low-fat diet helps to ease pancreatitis symptoms while your pet is in recovery. This may include home-cooked meals as directed by a pet nutritionist. After your pet feels better, long-term adjustments may be necessary to prevent future problems. Pet owners are advised to avoid fatty foods and table scraps, which can trigger another pancreatitis attack.

Medications

Depending on the cause, medications are sometimes used to treat pancreatitis. Types of medications for pancreatitis include:

Pain and anti-nausea medications to relieve discomfort
Stomach-protectant medications to prevent further damage
Appetite stimulants to encourage eating
Antibiotics, especially if the pancreatitis was caused by an infection
Immunosuppressants, if the condition was caused by diabetes

Be careful to follow the veterinarian’s instructions for administering medications, which are precisely tailored for your pet’s weight, age, and health history.

Supportive Care

For severe pancreatitis, your pet may need more direct intervention. Intravenous fluid and electrolyte support help to stave off dehydration, while a feeding tube provides nutritional support. Our veterinary hospital features spacious and comfortable accommodations for pets that need to spend the day or night, and a veterinary technician stays with them at all hours to ensure their well-being.

Managing Chronic Pancreatitis

Some cases of pancreatitis resolve quickly. Others, however, can become a chronic or recurring issue. Fortunately, pets with chronic pancreatitis are often able to maintain a normal lifestyle. Some changes may be recommended to manage a chronic condition more effectively. Medications, an alternative diet, and more frequent check-ups help to prevent future problems and keep your pet healthy.

Schedule an Appointment Near You in Westwood and Pompton Lakes, NJ

If your dog or cat is showing signs of sickness, don’t delay a diagnosis. Pet pancreatitis can worsen if left untreated. With professional care at Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital and Pompton Lakes Animal Hospital, however, most pets recover without complications. We provide compassionate care with modern techniques and technologies near you in Westwood, Pompton Lakes, and the Tri-State region of NJ. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an emergency appointment.

Pet Pancreatitis