Feline pancreatitis is a painful and often underdiagnosed condition in cats that requires careful management to restore quality of life and prevent chronic complications.
Feline pancreatitis causes significant pain and nausea. The vague, non-specific signs mean many cats suffer for extended periods before diagnosis. Because cats are stoic, owners may attribute signs like reduced appetite and lethargy to ageing rather than illness. Once diagnosed, adequate analgesia and anti-nausea medication are essential welfare measures. Nutritional support — including appetite stimulants or syringe feeding — prevents the dangerous hepatic lipidosis that occurs when cats stop eating. Addressing concurrent conditions (IBD, liver disease) simultaneously is important. With proper management, many cats with pancreatitis can have a good quality of life, but the condition often requires ongoing monitoring and intermittent treatment.