Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

Causes of pancreatitis in dogs can be extremely varied and include infections, obesity, trauma, specific types of medication or a metabolic disorder. This disease can even begin after surgery.

In several instances a dog can suffer further recurrences of pancreatitis once stricken with this illness. In fact, a vet may recommend a specific diet for life purely to prevent the condition recurring again.

When a dog has been prescribed medications like chemotherapy drugs or sulfa this may be the reason pancreatitis has occurred.

This illness can also result if a viral or bacterial infection has been transmitted to your dog.

Obesity is another of the causes of pancreatitis in dogs. Sometimes as a dog ages it can often put on weight which could result if they are fed with human food or given tasty treats of this nature or are eating a diet high in fat content. This, together with minimal exercise, is a likely reason for pancreatitis to be more of a risk for any dog.

An excessive amount of calcium in the blood stream known as hypercalcemia, is another probable cause of pancreatitis in dogs. Alternatively, if a dog suffers with diabetes this could cause the illness to materialize.

Physical trauma can also trigger pancreatitis to arise and any injury which may cause inflammation of the pancreas could also lead to this illness. It has been known that pancreatitis can also occur following surgery which has involved the pancreas.

There are many different instances and causes of pancreatitis in dogs; it is not one specific area.

It goes without saying that any changes in your dog's health should be followed up and attention given to any symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal pain or distension, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, lethargy or any noticeable changes in your dog's mood or behavior.

If any of these symptoms are present it is advised to seek a vet's opinion to ascertain whether your dog is suffering with pancreatitis. Speed is of the essence as the disease could become severe and life threatening, if left untreated.

As there are many causes of pancreatitis in dogs, it is always advisable to be vigilant for any symptoms of the disease.