Pancreatitis in Cats If you are a cat owner there is about a one in five chance that you have either had a pet with pancreatitis or currently have a cat who has the condition. Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) is the most common exocrine pancreatic disease in cats. Pancreatitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Which one will depend on whether or not the disease has permanently damaged pancreatic cells, and if so to what extent. Signs of severe pancreatitis are the same as with many other digestive disorder in cats. These include dehydration, loss of appetite, lethargy, low body temperature, vomiting, and abdominal pain. To either confirm or rule out the presence of pancreatitis you veterinarian will need to run a blood test, along with ultrasonography or exploratory surgery, if needed. Treatment Some form of treatment is almost always required and can include a broad list of possible options. The outlook in mild cases is quite good, but sadly, the outlook for severe cases is very poor indeed with about half of cases ultimately resulting in death. Treatment for pancreatitis includes careful monitoring and supportive veterinary care. Hospitalization under the watchful eye of your pets veterinarian is a real possibility and should be expected especially in severe cases. As with so many pet diseases early recognition combined with swift intervention will be the key to preventing complications. If the cause is undetermined or can’t be established, specific treatment may be started. This might include resting the pancreas by eliminating all food and water for 3 or 4 days when vomiting is present. If this is the course of action intravenous fluids will be required. Pain medication is often suggested since it is a given that abdominal pain will be present. In mild cases a low fat diet will likely be called for. Pancreatic enzyme supplementation may help in cases in which abdominal pain is present or for cats with poor appetites (often the only indicator of abdominal pain). Cats with mild, long-term pancreatitis should be closely monitored for potential complications, such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Three tips for managing pancreatitis *As briefly mentioned above diet plays an important role and implementing a low fat, high fiber diet, is generally helpful in both assuring successful treatment and prevention. If your pet has chronic pancreatitis, a single fatty meal can be enough to set off an attack. *Avoid toxins. Pesticides, medications, and household cleaners all can have a negative impact on your pets health. Limiting environmental toxins is a good rule of thumb for pets with pancreatitis. Additionally, if harsh medications are required detoxification might be something worth seriously considering. *Stress is another common thread in many pets with pancreatitis with some pets being more prone to anxiety than others. For these pets a little extra TLC may be required, especially during times of change. What about herbs for treating pancreatitis in cats? For pancreatitis natural remedies will generally only play a supporting role since veterinary treatment is always required. Certain herbs and homeopathic ingredients have been identified as having excellent tonic properties for the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Perhaps the most notable is milk thistle which acts as a powerful antioxidant and helps eliminate dangerous toxins at a cellular level. Another helpful herb for pancreatitis is burdock which is beneficial both when used in combination with convention treatment methods or used as a preventative tool. This herb possesses antibiotic properties and works as a blood purifier.
|
| Thank You for Visiting Purchase Remedies.com |