Supporting Dogs & Cats With Pancreatitis, and Maintaining Pancreatic Health

chrisandtonya519
Dec 27, 2024
5 min read

"I'm looking for a treat that is very low in fat, do you have anything?" asked a potential customer one day while we were at the Brigden Fair this past year, with a bit of a stand-off approach and tone in her voice.

"Hmm, we have a few... May I ask if there is a specific health issue that you are dealing with - perhaps pancreatitis?" I answered.

"Oh... you actually do know what you are talking about. Yes, my elderly dog has pancreatitis, and I've been searching for treats that I can give him." She said, with an immediate sense of relief apparent in her voice.

"Got it, we've been there with our own dogs, and yes we have options that can help," I reassured her.

In this article we will dive into the importance of a healthy pancreas in our pets, and what pancreatitis is, and some information to consider as you try to navigate the path forward in supporting your cat or dog.

Understanding Pancreatic Health in Dogs
Importance of a Low-Fat Diet
Suitable Low-Fat Food Options for Dogs
Meal Toppers and Treats
Evidence-Based Insights
What is Considered Low-Fat
Conclusions

*Note - always consult your veterinarian for their advice and input on your pet's nutrition, diet, and health. This article is for informational purposes only*

Understanding Pancreatic Health

The pancreas plays a vital role in your pet's digestive system by producing enzymes that help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

When the pancreas becomes inflamed—a condition known as pancreatitis—it can lead to severe discomfort and serious health complications. Common symptoms include:

Vomiting and diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Loss of appetite
Lethargy

Importance of a Low-Fat Diet

A low-fat diet helps reduce the workload on the pancreas, minimizing the production of digestive enzymes that can exacerbate inflammation - this is often referred to as "resting the gut".

By controlling fat intake, you can manage symptoms and promote healing in dogs and cats with pancreatic issues. For cats specifically, it has been found that both fat as well as the size of the protein particle size may also play a role in the digestibility (Cridge, H. 2024).

Benefits of a Low-Fat Diet for Pancreatic Health

Reduces Pancreatic Stimulation: Lower fat intake decreases the pancreas's need to produce enzymes, allowing it to heal.
Prevents Recurrence: Consistently maintaining a low-fat diet can prevent future pancreatic flare-ups.
Aids Digestion: Easier digestion of proteins and carbohydrates supports overall digestive health.
Weight Management: Low-fat diets help maintain a healthy weight, reducing strain on the pancreas and other organs.

Suitable Low-Fat Food Options for Dogs

Commercial Low-Fat Dog Foods

Many reputable brands offer specialized low-fat formulas designed for dogs with pancreatic issues. Look for products labeled "low-fat" or "therapeutic" and consult your veterinarian before making any changes. Often cats are put on a hydrolyzed protein diet, to aid in the digestibility of the protein particles.

Homemade Low-Fat Meals

Creating homemade meals allows you to control the ingredients and ensure your dog receives a balanced diet. Here are some low-fat meal ideas:

Ingredient	Benefits
Lean Proteins	Chicken breast, turkey, and some fish are excellent sources of protein without excess fat.
Vegetables	Carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes provide essential vitamins and fiber.
Complex Carbohydrates	Brown rice and quinoa offer sustained energy and are easy to digest.
Healthy Fats	A small amount of olive oil or flaxseed oil can provide necessary fatty acids without overloading the pancreas.

Meal Toppers and Treats

Incorporate low-fat meal toppers and treats to enhance your pet's diet without compromising their pancreatic health:

Pumpkin Puree: Rich in fiber and easy to digest.
Plain Greek Yogurt: Provides probiotics for gut health.
Green Beans: A crunchy, low-calorie treat.
Apple Slices: Ensure seeds are removed to avoid choking hazards.

Tips for Transitioning to a Low-Fat Diet

Gradual Change: Slowly introduce the low-fat diet over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.
Monitor Weight: Keep an eye on your pet's weight and adjust portions as needed.
Regular Vet Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits to monitor pancreatic health and adjust the diet accordingly.
Hydration: Ensure your dog or cat has access to fresh water at all times to aid digestion and overall health.

Evidence-Based Insights

A study published in the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) publications in 2024 examined the role of nutrition in managing pancreatitis in dogs and cats. Guidelines are based on studies and anecdotal evidence. While fat has been a primary concern, in cats, protein particle size may be more significant than fat. Initially, low-fat gastrointestinal diets are recommended for dogs, while hydrolyzed diets are preferred for cats. Comorbid diseases can influence nutritional recommendations, prioritizing the diet for the most critical illness. Many pets can return to their previous diet if no significant comorbid disease is present, but dogs with recurrent pancreatitis may require long-term low-fat diets (Cridge, H. 2024).

The Canadian Academy of Veterinary Nutrition has a very detailed overview of the importance of nutrition in pancreatic disease in dogs. Here they emphasize the importance of dietary management in pancreatic health, covering pancreatitis towards the end, but also diabetes which is also related to the pancreas, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. They state, as we discussed earlier, "A veterinary low-fat diet is usually the best initial option for dogs with pancreatitis. Fat requires more pancreatic secretions to be digested and also delays digestion by reducing gastric emptying."

What is Considered Low-Fat?

The goal of nutrition for dogs with pancreatitis is to give the pancreas a rest to aid recovery. This involves reducing fat and protein levels in their diet, as the pancreas produces digestive enzymes to break these down.

Recommended fat levels are 10%-15% for mild cases, with more severe cases requiring less than 10%.

Protein levels should be 15%-30%, ensuring it is high quality and easily digestible, like fish. Pancreatitis is known to create a cycle of inflammation within the body. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are commonly high in marine proteins, may also help in supporting the body's natural anti-inflammatory process.

Conclusion

Supporting your dog's pancreatic health through a low-fat diet is a proactive step toward ensuring their long and happy life. By choosing the right foods, monitoring their diet, and consulting with your veterinarian, you can effectively manage pancreatic issues and enhance your pet's overall well-being.

Low-Fat Options from B&T Pets

B&T Pets has a wide selection of treats for both cats and dogs which are suitable for pets with pancreatitis.

Treats: