Your pet depends on you to recognize when something isn’t right. Maybe they can’t tell you when something is wrong, but they can show you if you know what to look for. It’s easy to dismiss an upset stomach as a minor issue, but sometimes, it’s more than that. Maybe they’re skipping meals, acting sluggish, or are suddenly uncomfortable when you touch their belly. These subtle signs might be easy to overlook, but they could point to a painful and potentially serious condition: pancreatitis.

At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we know how alarming it is when your pet isn’t feeling well. Pancreatitis can be triggered by diet, underlying health conditions, or even unknown causes, and catching it early can make all the difference. We’re here to help you understand the warning signs, the risks, and what to do if you suspect your pet is suffering from pancreatitis. Because when it comes to your pet’s health, knowledge is the key to keeping them safe, happy, and thriving.

What Causes Pancreatitis in Pets?

Depending on the circumstances, several factors could result in your pet suffering from pancreatitis. The following are some of the most common causes and triggers of pancreatitis:

  • High-fat diets and table scraps, including food taken from unsecured trash
  • Obesity and metabolic disorders
  • Underlying diseases, like diabetes or endocrine disorders
  • Certain medications and toxins, such as corticosteroids, some antibiotics, and seizure medications, are connected to pancreatitis
  • Severe or blunt trauma to the abdomen, such as from a surgery or car accident
  • Genetic predisposition in some breeds, including Miniature Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers
  • Bacterial or viral infections
  • Chronic stress

Some causes of pancreatitis can be easily removed by owners, while others require veterinary intervention and medical attention. Regardless of what you think may be the cause of your furry friend’s pancreatitis, we encourage you to seek support and call your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Signs and Symptoms: How to Recognize Pancreatitis in Your Pet

It can be difficult to determine if your pet has pancreatitis if you don’t know what signs to look for. The following are some of the most common symptoms your pet will show if they have pancreatitis:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Lethargy or listlessness
  • Weakness 
  • Loss of appetite or disinterest in food
  • Abdominal pain, typically seen with a hunched posture and sensitivity to touch
  • Dehydration
  • Fever

You should get veterinary assistance if your furry friend has been vomiting or had diarrhea for more than 24 hours or if they show multiple symptoms of pancreatitis. Getting your pet seen by a medical professional— like one of the dedicated vets at Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care—can help stop the condition from progressing and worsening and provide necessary treatment.

What Is Pancreatitis in Pets?

Pancreatitis is what happens when the pancreas begins to digest itself. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), this occurs because digestive enzymes have been activated too early within the pancreas, instead of later in the small intestine. The pancreas often becomes inflamed during this process, and this inflammation may be chronic or acute.

Acute pancreatitis normally occurs quickly and develops into severe inflammation. However, chronic pancreatitis is more likely to happen over time, with more subtle symptoms making it harder to diagnose accurately. Many cases of chronic pancreatitis occur due to repeated acute pancreatitis flare-ups. Both are serious and require medical support from your vet.

In some cases, necrosis in the pancreas can become so severe that pancreatitis becomes fatal. This means you should not wait if you notice your pet is in distress. The sooner you take action, the more likely your furry friend is to make a full recovery, allowing your vet to mitigate additional damage, and giving you and your pet peace of mind. 

Compassionate Care for Pancreatitis at Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care

When your pet is in pain, you want answers—and fast. Pancreatitis can be a painful and serious condition, but your pet can recover with early detection and proper care. At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we combine advanced diagnostics with a holistic approach to ensure your pet receives the most effective treatment possible. Our AAHA-accredited team is here to provide the support and expertise you need to manage your pet’s condition and prevent future flare-ups.

If your pet is showing signs of pancreatitis, don’t wait. Seeking veterinary care as soon as possible can make all the difference in their recovery and long-term health. Our team is ready to guide you through the next steps and provide compassionate, high-quality care. Call us at (775) 853-6900 or request an appointment with our contact form.