Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Pancreatic Disease Welfare

Feline pancreatitis causes acute and chronic abdominal pain that is frequently underrecognized in cats.

Key Facts

Cats show fewer obvious signs of pancreatic pain than dogs - subtle inappetence and lethargy
Chronic pancreatitis may coexist with IBD and cholangitis as a triad in affected cats
Serum feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (fPLI) is the most reliable diagnostic test
Pain management with buprenorphine and anti-nausea medication significantly improves welfare
Nutritional support including assisted feeding maintains condition during acute episodes

Welfare Considerations

Feline pancreatitis causes real significant pain that is frequently missed. Improving recognition of subtle signs and providing appropriate pain and anti-nausea management transforms welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Be aware that reduced appetite, lethargy, and vomiting may indicate pancreatitis
Request fPLI testing from your vet if pancreatitis is suspected
Ensure pain management is included in any treatment plan for feline pancreatitis