The function of the pancreas is to help balance blood sugar, and it also provides digestive enzymes to initiate digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. One indicator of acute pancreatitis is the marked elevation of amylase and lipase in the blood. This happens as a result of these enzymes escaping from the pancreatic ducts and becoming resorbed back into the blood. Symptoms include gastrointestinal disorder, vomiting, acute abdominal pain and lack of appetite.
Inflammation of the feline pancreas is a very poorly understood condition in the veterinary community. It is difficult to diagnose, and the direct cause is rarely discovered. Unfortunately, discussions of the causes of this disease in veterinary references do not consider the effects of constant poor nutrition. As with many chronic conditions of the cat, this condition is usually associated with a poor diet that is far too high in carbohydrates, (the typical dry kibble diet).
Cat pancreatitis can also be a precursor to diabetes. The pancreas is overburdened by a constant diet of grains, or a variety of other foods that are high in starches, and this organ simply cannot maintain optimal function when it is faced with these inappropriate foods. Inflammatory damage to the pancreas can destroy the ability of this organ to perform its normal functions. An additional factor which can negatively impact the pancreas is the presence of toxins in the form of food pollutants of heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and vaccines and drugs administered by the veterinary profession.
Treatment of cat pancreatitis is usually, mistakenly, the same treatment that is prescribed for dogs - a diet that is low in fat, and high in carbohydrates. In fact it should be noted that the true carnivore's diet should be low in carbohydrates and high in proteins. Although the jury is still out on whether to keep dietary fat under control, it is a good idea to feed meats that are relatively low in fats.
A complete amino acid profile is essential, in the form of fresh, raw, lean meat. Foods that are high in processed carbohydrates must be avoided at all costs, in order to avoid further damage to an already debilitated pancreas. The cat may require supplementation with insulin injections or enzymes added to the food until the affected organ can resume secretion of these vital substances.
Inflammation of the pancreas is usually the result of poor nutrition in the form of dry commercial diets. The solution to avoiding further flare-ups is a species appropriate diet, high in proteins and low in carbohydrates.
