.png)
Understanding the Power of Pancreatic Enzymes: A Deep Dive into Digestive Support
- Feb 25
- 4 min read
In this post we will dive into a couple of key topics to understand as we learn more about digestive support in our pets:
Have you just been told that your cat has pancreatitis, or that your dog has EPI? Now what...
Learning that your pet has pancreatitis often comes after a difficult few days of watching your dog or cat suffer. I've been there, with both Baron and Tessa, the namesakes of B&T Pets. It is common for symptoms to appear suddenly, including severe pain in the abdomen, significant loss of appetite, leading to dehydration and lethargy, along with persistent vomiting and diarrhea.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) is a condition that I have thankfully not experienced firsthand, but results in devastating illness to those cats and dogs that are affected. EPI occurs because of insufficient production of digestive enzyme in the pancreas. It causes maldigestion resulting in severe nutrient malabsorption; common symptoms include significant weight loss despite a ravenous appetite, chronic diarrhea with large-volume, loose, and often pale/greasy stools, and increased flatulence. Affected animals frequently exhibit poor coat quality, and without treatment the prognosis is devastating. However, EPI is often managed with daily enzyme supplementation, leading to rapid weight gain, and return of regular bowel movements. EPI is uncommon in cats, but two thirds of cases occur in German Shepherds, while Rough Coated Collies, and Chow Chows also have a genetic predisposition. In other breeds, as well as in cats, EPI often occurs following chronic pancreatitis.
When we think about our pet's "healthspan", we aren't just talking about adding years to a life; we’re talking about adding life to those years. For many cats and dogs, as with all living beings, the secret to vitality lies in their ability to actually absorb the nutrients we feed them.
At B&T Pets, we’ve developed a pancreas enzyme supplement designed to bridge the gap for pets struggling with digestive efficiency. Sourced locally and processed gently to preserve enzyme activity, this supplement is a powerhouse of natural enzymes.
The Biological Engine: What Does the Pancreas Do?
The pancreas is a dual-purpose organ. While it regulates blood sugar (endocrine function), its exocrine function is what drives digestion.
It produces three primary enzymes that break down food into absorbable units:
Lipase: Breaks down fats into fatty acids.
Protease: Breaks down proteins into amino acids.
Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars.
When a pet’s body doesn't produce enough of these enzymes, nutrients pass through the digestive tract unused. This can lead to malnutrition, regardless of how high-quality their diet is.
Conditions Supported by Pancreatic Supplementation
While many pet parents use digestive enzymes for general pet healthspan maintenance, there are specific conditions where supplemental pancreatic enzymes provides critical support:
1. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
EPI is a condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes. It is most common in certain breeds like German Shepherds but can affect any dog or cat.
The Support: According to research published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, oral administration of pancreatic enzymes is considered the gold standard for managing the clinical signs of EPI [[Link to Source]].
2. Chronic Pancreatitis
In cases of chronic inflammation, the pancreas may become scarred, reducing its long-term enzyme output. Supplemental enzymes can "rest" the organ by reducing the feedback loop that signals the pancreas to work harder.
3. General Malabsorption & Senior Vitality
As pets age, their metabolic efficiency may decline. Adding a supplement like ground pancreas can assist in the breakdown of complex nutrients, supporting healthy weight maintenance and coat quality.
Why Porcine (Pork) Pancreas?
We chose locally sourced pork pancreas for a specific reason - studies have shown that porcine-derived enzymes may have as much as 30-50% higher concentrations of lipase than bovine (beef) alternatives, along with higher amylase activity as well. This makes the supplement highly effective for fat and starch digestion in monogastric animals like dogs and cats, while still having comparable levels of protease activity for protein digestion.
By using a freeze-drying process, we ensure that these delicate proteins are not denatured by high heat, maintaining their "bioactive" state until they reach your pet's bowl.
Important Safety: When to Exercise Caution
While pancreatic enzymes are a natural novel protein source, they are potent. In all cases, the ground pancreas should be reconstituted in luke-warm water for approximately 20 minutes. This is necessary for two reasons:
Reconstitution with water allows the enzymes to be be activated, so they are ready to support healthy digestion
Moistening of the ground pancrease reduces the likelihood of inhalation of that powder, which may cause irritation of the airways or oral cavity.
Once reconstituted, the pancreatic supplement should be mixed with your pet's regular food, and eaten immediately.
This supplement should not be used in the following scenarios without strict veterinary supervision:
Acute Pancreatitis Flares: During an active, painful "attack" of acute pancreatitis, the goal is often to withhold oral intake entirely. Introducing enzymes during an acute flare may exacerbate irritation.
Oral Ulceration: In some pets, concentrated enzyme powder can irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth. It is often recommended to mix the supplement thoroughly with moistened food to prevent "mouth scald."
Pre-existing Gastric Ulcers: The protease in the supplement could potentially irritate existing stomach lining issues.
Note on Consultation: Because every pet’s "enzyme requirement" is unique to their specific health status and weight, it is essential to consult your veterinarian to determine the exact amount to provide.
References & Evidence-Based Research
EPI Management: Westermarck, E., & Wiberg, M. (2012). "Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency in the Dog: Historical Background, Diagnosis, and Treatment." Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice. Click Here to review this article in more detail.
Enzyme Efficacy: Texas A&M University Gastrointestinal Laboratory. "Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)." Click Here to access additional information.
Comparative Studies: Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. "Rational Use of Pancreatic Enzymes for Pancreatic Insufficiency
and Pancreatic Pain." Click Here to review this article in more detail.
Supporting Your Pet’s Journey
Improving your pet’s metabolic health starts with the gut. Our ground pork pancreas is a pure, potent way to ensure your companion is getting every ounce of nutrition out of their meals.
We also have a number of lower fat treat options that are a great choice for those pets parents looking for additional options.
Comments