How to Diagnose Pancreatitis in Cats

Feline pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas in cats performs the same functions as it does in humans: regulating sugar intake via the production of insulin and breaking down nutrients via the production of pancreatic enzymes. Pancreatis can be an acute condition in cats that causes major symptoms quickly, or it may be chronic. Both types of pancreatitis can be treated, but diagnosing pancreatitis early is the key to the best outcome. Monitoring and recording your cat's condition will help both you and your veterinarian diagnose this illness properly.

Things You'll Need

• Journal

Instructions

1. Monitor your cat for the common symptoms of pancreatitis, which are lethargy, loss of appetite and weight loss. In less than half of feline pancreatitis cases, the cat experiences vomiting.

2. Document how often and when your cat is experiencing these symptoms. Because the symptoms mimic those of other diseases, the more detailed information you can provide the veterinarian about the frequency and severity of the symptoms, the more accurate the diagnosis will be.

3. Weigh your cat at least weekly to monitor its rate of weight loss. When cats stop eating and lose weight rapidly, fats break down in their bodies that need to be processed through the kidneys. This puts a strain on the kidneys and can damage them. If your cat loses more than 1 lb. within a week, call your veterinarian immediately.

4. Make sure your cat is drinking water if she is vomiting frequently. Vomiting can dehydrate a cat quickly, and if the water is not being replaced through drinking, it is important to get your cat to a veterinarian quickly to have fluids delivered under its skin. If your cat has diarrhea along with vomiting, the illness is not likely to be pancreatitis, but may constitute irritable bowel disease. Tell your veterinarian about each and every symptom your cat is exhibiting.

5. Do not make any changes to your cat's diet while you are monitoring her symptoms. A change in diet can aggravate some symptoms or cause others that are not directly related to the original disease. Your veterinarian may put your cat on a special diet to remove some possible allergens or irritants, and it's important to note and report any symptom changes during that time.

6. Follow the veterinarian's directions in the treatment of pancreatitis once it has been diagnosed. Final diagnosis will require blood tests to check for levels of pancreatic enzymes. X-rays and a biopsy may also be ordered to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment may include pain medication, B12 injections and medication to reduce vomiting. Your cat may also have to have fluid injections every few days until he is able to resume drinking water on his own.