Keep your eye out for pancreatitis in cats

Recent data suggest that, most cases of pancreatitis in people are not diagnosed. The situation is similar in cats. Symptoms in cats are often vague, making diagnosis difficult.

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which affects the digestive enzymes. It can appear suddenly or be a chronic condition, with the chronic form being more common in cats.

Pancreatitis can have many causes, including trauma, parasites, infection, and drug reactions. However, more than 90 percent of all pancreatitis cases in cats have no known cause.

Unlike dogs, cats with pancreatitis do not usually vomit or experience belly pain as their initial sign. About 35 percent of cats with pancreatitis will vomit. Many cats with pancreatitis show signs such as lethargy, poor appetite or not eating at all. It is not uncommon to find other conditions at the same time including liver disease and inflammatory bowel disease. If your cat is more quiet than usual or their appetite changes and this goes on for more than 1-2 days make sure to see your veterinarian.

Diagnosing pancreatitis can be problematic and may require several tests. X-rays will help rule out other causes for the symptoms. Blood tests and ultrasound are more promising. A biopsy is best, although in severely ill patients the risk of using an anesthetic may be too risky.

Cats with pancreatitis will need fluid therapy and careful monitoring of their electrolytes. If your cat is not eating, a feeding tube inserted by your veterinarian into the small intestine, or special liquid nutrition given via an intravenous line, may be needed for as long as seven to ten days. Pain control is essential. Early intervention is important for recovery and in order to avoid multiple organ failure.

Relative costs for diagnosis and management of pancreatitis range from $200-$500 for mild or chronic cases and $1000 or more for severe cases.

The chance of recovery is directly related to severity of disease. Patients with mild pancreatitis may do well in the long term but may also develop intermittent episodes of severe disease. Patients with severe disease may have a poor outcome.

Pancreatitis may be more common in cats than we think. If your cat is showing these vague signs an early diagnosis may save you more expense and give your kitty a better chance of recovery.