A warm, dry nose in a dog is a sure sign that the animal is experiencing discomfort. But how can you tell what exactly is wrong? Most illnesses in humans and animals are similar. Pancreatitis is one such condition that, unfortunately, also affects pets. What signs can you use to diagnose the disease and prevent complications? We'll cover this in this article.
Refusal of food
If food remains untouched in the bowl for a long time and your pet is lethargic and inactive, this isn't a good sign. And if your dog refuses even his favorite treat, there may be a health problem. However, don't panic. Our little friends are susceptible to stress and mood swings, just like people. It's important to keep an eye on your dog throughout the day.
Pain in the lower abdomen
If your dog's behavior doesn't change, try to determine how it reacts to abdominal palpation. Carefully, without provoking aggression, lay your pet on its back and stroke its abdomen. Continue stroking in circular motions and apply gentle pressure to the area just to the left of the navel. If your dog yelps or attempts to bite, it's experiencing pain, typical of inflammation.
Since your actions may cause pain, the animal may bite. Therefore, before palpating, place a soft rope loop or muzzle on your patient's muzzle.
Nausea and vomiting
If your pet is eating a normal diet but is vomiting or even vomiting after every meal, this could also be a sign of pancreatic inflammation. These symptoms are also typical of simple poisoning, but if your dog is rapidly losing weight, it's best to consult a veterinarian. Also, monitor your dog's stool, as regular diarrhea can also indicate an underlying condition.
Bloating
This is another sign. Even without pain, the abdomen can indicate that something is wrong with the dog. If it's hard and bloated, like a balloon, it's cause for concern.
Pancreatitis in its initial stage is practically asymptomatic.
The temperature will be within acceptable limits, and the appetite will remain intact. However, bloating, unless it's caused by overeating, should not be ignored. Especially if the animal exhibits another symptom of illness.
Itchy skin
It's normal for a dog to scratch occasionally. But if your pet does it regularly, it's worth taking a closer look. Scratching on the animal's body can indicate a skin problem. As a result of inflammation, the pancreas swells and begins to press on adjacent organs, including the gallbladder.
Bile acids enter the bloodstream and, when they reach nerve endings, cause unpleasant itching and burning.
The animal begins to scratch intensely, literally tearing its skin. This process may be accompanied by frequent urination and dry mouth.
All of the above symptoms are characteristic of pancreatitis. If your pet experiences at least some of them, there's a high probability that it's inflammation of the pancreas. However, these signs, either individually or in combination, can also indicate other conditions. To confirm or rule out the diagnosis, it's best to consult a veterinarian at the first sign of concern in your pet.
