If your cat has been losing weight and showing signs of lethargy, it may have pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas and is very common in cats. This article will provide a summary of the condition of pancreatitis while focusing on the symptoms of pancreatitis in cats so you know what to watch out for and whether you need to make a trip to your vet.
What are the normal functions of the pancreas?
The pancreas is a dual-function gland. It has both exocrine and endocrine functions.
As part of the digestive system, the exocrine pancreas produces enzymes that flow through ducts into the intestine to help with the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Approximately 90% of the functioning pancreas is made up of exocrine tissue.
The endocrine pancreas produces insulin and glucagon, hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels.
What is pancreatitis in cats?
Pancreatitis in cats is an inflammation of the pancreas. It can be acute or chronic, and its severity can range from mild to severe.
The exocrine pancreas produces enzymes that are inactive in their zymogen form. This packaging helps prevent the enzymes from being activated prematurely before they are released into the duodenum (first part of the small intestine). Once they are released into the intestines, the zymogens will activate and begin digesting nutrients. If there are substances that block this process, or if enzymes are activated while still in the pancreas, it can cause the pancreas to start digesting itself inappropriately. This process is what causes the symptoms of pancreatitis in cats.
What causes pancreatitis in cats?
The majority of cases are idiopathic, meaning the underlying cause is unknown. Many cats with pancreatitis have concurrent diseases such as liver disease, diabetes mellitus, hepatic lipidosis and gastrointestinal disorders.
The connection between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and pancreatitis in cats has been demonstrated. Vomiting and inflammation can lead to reflux into the pancreatic duct, which can trigger pancreatitis.
Unlike in dogs, obesity and high-fat diets are not common risk factors for pancreatitis in cats.
What are the symptoms of pancreatitis in cats?
The symptoms of pancreatitis in cats are often subtle and vague. They can also be similar to the symptoms of other diseases, making diagnosis difficult. The most common symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Anorexia (loss of appetite)
- Weight loss
- Vomiting (in approximately 1/3 of cases)
- ADR ("ain't doing right")
If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
How is pancreatitis in cats diagnosed?
A complete history to assess the symptoms of pancreatitis in cats and a physical examination are essential for the diagnosis of pancreatitis in cats. Medical tests are often performed to support and expand upon the findings of the physical examination.
Blood tests are often used to assess for pancreatitis in cats. They can help determine if the pancreas is inflamed and if there are any other concurrent diseases present. There is a very accurate blood test that your veterinarian will recommend called the fPLI test which stands for feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity.
Imaging tests such as x-rays and abdominal ultrasound may also be recommended to help assess the extent of pancreatitis and look for any other abnormalities.
A biopsy of the pancreas is considered the gold standard for diagnosis but is often not performed due to the invasiveness of the procedure.
How is pancreatitis in cats treated?
There is no specific treatment for pancreatitis in cats, and therapy is focused on supportive care. Treatment will be based on the severity of symptoms and may include:
- Hospitalization
- Fluid therapy
- Nutritional support
- Pain relief
- Antiemetics (medications to help with vomiting)
- Corticosteroids
What is the prognosis for pancreatitis in cats?
The prognosis for cats with pancreatitis is generally good, especially if the condition is caught early and treated thoroughly. However, some cats may develop chronic pancreatitis, which can lead to weight loss, malabsorption, and diabetes mellitus.
Recurrence of pancreatitis is also possible, and special care should be taken to avoid any trigger factors. For example, if inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is the cause of pancreatitis in your dog, successful treatment for IBD can reduce the risk of recurrent pancreatitis.
Pancreatitis in cats is a condition that is often difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are subtle and vague. The most common symptoms of pancreatitis in cats include lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, and occasionally, vomiting. Treatment for pancreatitis in cats focuses on supportive care, and the prognosis for most cats is good. However, some cats may develop chronic pancreatitis, which can lead to weight loss, malabsorption, and diabetes mellitus. Recurrence of pancreatitis is also possible. Special care should be taken to avoid any trigger factors.
If you suspect that your cat may have pancreatitis, it is important to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With proper treatment, most cats make a full recovery. If you have any questions about the symptoms of pancreatitis in cats, please contact your veterinarian for further advice.