Why pancreatitis in cats is chronically under-diagnosed, how it presents differently from dogs and how to manage it humanely.
Feline pancreatitis is a welfare problem that hides in plain sight. Because cats suppress outward signs of pain, owners and even veterinarians may underestimate the chronic discomfort these animals endure. The risk of hepatic lipidosis developing on top of pancreatitis creates a compounding welfare emergency when anorexia is not treated aggressively. Syringe feeding or feeding tube placement — while stressful in the short term — prevents a secondary life-threatening condition and allows recovery. Pain management with buprenorphine or other feline-appropriate analgesics should be provided routinely, as chronic inflammatory pain is likely even in cats that do not vocalise or guard their abdomen overtly.