What are good snacks for dogs with pancreatitis

What Can a Dog with Pancreatitis Eat? Dog Food, Treats & Human Food

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Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.

In my experience as a veterinarian, dealing with a diagnosis of pancreatitis requires dog owners to look at things in a new light. For one thing, they want to know what can dogs with pancreatitis eat without getting sick?

Choosing the right dog food is key: focusing on low-fat, moderate protein, and highly digestible foods is best for pancreatitis. But how do you navigate these choices with just product labels for guidance?

In this article, Ill share my top food recommendations for dogs with pancreatitis and point out what to steer clear of. Always remember to discuss your dogs specific needs with your veterinarian for the best advice.

KEY POINTS

• Dog pancreatitis is common and occurs when the pancreas, an organ in the abdomen, becomes inflamed. The cause of pancreatitis is often unknown.
• Veterinarians often recommend a low-fat, highly digestible diet with a moderate protein level.
• Its important to consult a veterinarian when choosing food for a dog prone to pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis in Dogs

Pancreatitis in dogs is more than just a stomach upset; its a serious health condition that needs careful attention. The pancreas, a small but powerful organ nestled near your dogs stomach, plays a dual role in the body. It not only produces hormones like insulin, which regulates blood sugar, but also creates digestive enzymes essential for breaking down food.

When a dog has pancreatitis, this vital organ becomes inflamed, disrupting its normal functions. This inflammation can cause the digestive enzymes to activate prematurely inside the pancreas instead of in the small intestine. The result? The pancreas starts digesting itself, leading to damage, pain, and potentially severe health complications.

Dogs with pancreatitis often show symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis

This condition can be acute, where symptoms appear suddenly and are severe. In chronic pancreatitis, symptoms are less intense but persist or recur over time.

Both forms require immediate veterinary attention to manage the symptoms and prevent further complications.

Causes & Risk Factors

While these things are known risk factors, theyre not always the culprit. In fact, the exact cause of this condition often remains a mystery.

The classic picture of acute pancreatitis occurs in a dog who has recently eaten a high-fat meal. Perhaps they got into the trash or their owner shared a few rich bites of dinner.

Certain medications, like potassium bromide, and diseases such as diabetes mellitus and Cushings disease, can trigger pancreatitis. Physical trauma to the abdomen is another potential cause.

Some breeds are more likely to develop pancreatitis. These include Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Schnauzers, Dachshunds, Poodles, and various Terrier breeds. Obesity and age (over 5 years) also increase the risk of pancreatitis in dogs.

By understanding the critical role of the pancreas and the impact of its inflammation, we can better grasp the importance of dietary management in combating pancreatitis. A well-thought-out diet not only eases the burden on a struggling pancreas but also supports the overall health of your dog.

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What Should a Dog With Pancreatitis Eat?

Since the pancreas is stimulated each time a dog eats, its important to choose the right food for a dog with an inflamed pancreas. The wrong food can add to the problem while the right foods can speed healing.

For years, veterinarians have recommended a low-fat diet for dogs with or prone to pancreatitis. Vet nutritionists advise dog owners to feed food that is lower in fat than the food the dog was eating when they developed acute pancreatitis.

Prescription foods we recommend for pancreatitis include Hills i/d and Royal Canin Low-fat Gastrointestinal dog foods. If you want to feed a non-prescription commercial low-fat dog food, youll have to read the label.

What Is Low-Fat Dog Food?

What defines low-fat dog food for pets with pancreatitis? A simple guideline is to choose dry dog food that has 7% fat or less on a dry matter basis, as shown on the label.

While that guideline is good, there are more factors to consider when choosing dog food for pancreatitis.

Based on the advice of veterinary nutritionists, I look for dog food that meets the following criteria:

• FAT 20% or lower for severe/chronic pancreatitis; 30% or lower for moderate/mild cases
• PROTEIN 30% or lower
• FIBER 5% fiber or lower
• Provides complete and balanced nutrition according to AAFCO standards
• Made by a reliable company with a long history of quality

These percentages should be calculated on a calorie basis. Because dog food labels generally give nutrient values on a dry matter basis, you cant simply look at the label for this information. It requires some calculations that are frankly a pain to do when youre shopping for dog food.

So Ive looked at dozens of non-prescription dog foods for you. Below are a handful of products to consider if your dog has mild to moderate pancreatitis. Dogs with severe disease often need to eat prescription dog food. Consult your veterinarian before choosing one of these products.

My Top 3 Non-Prescription Dog Foods for Pancreatitis(+Treats)

Solid Gold, Natural Balance and Wellness brands offer lower-fat commercial dog foods you can buy without a prescription. Please discuss them with your vet before changing your dogs diet.

Solid Gold Fit & Fabulous-Alaskan Pollock Dry Dog Food

Very low fat content (22% of calories, moderate protein (29% of calories), grain-free for owners who prefer this, added probiotics may help pancreatitis, the protein source is fish and turkey which are good for sensitive dogs, good level of omega 3 fatty acids.

Pancreas-Friendly Dog Treats

Be very careful about giving treats and tidbits to a dog with a sensitive pancreas. A snack with high fat content or a large meal with a lot of protein or fiber could trigger pancreatitis.

Low-fat dog treats are tolerated by most dogs with mild pancreatitis. My canine patients love these low-fat, soft Lean Treats:

AVOID high-fat dog treats. These include pig ears, some types of jerky treats and regular Pup-peroni.

Rawhide chews and bully sticks are usually low in fat, but are hard to digest, so I dont recommend these for sensitive dogs. Greenies Original chews are low in fat so they might be OK, but proceed with caution.

When in doubt, ask your vet before giving your dog any new food or treat!

Homemade Dog Food

A homemade diet is a viable option for dogs with pancreatitis. But you cant just mix chicken and rice and think thats good enough!

I always recommend consulting the veterinary nutritionists at BalanceIT.com to get a complete and balanced recipe for homemade pancreas-friendly dog food. They can set you up with a simple recipe that is perfectly safe and vet-approved for long-term feeding.

Ask your vet for help in choosing ingredients appropriate to your dogs specific needs. Most vets in the US are familiar with the Balance IT recipe creation services but dont offer the option to clients since so many prefer pre-made commercial dog food.

Foods to Avoid

Every dog has different sensitivities, but many dogs with sensitive pancreases do best avoiding

• Foods high in fat or fiber
• Large portions of protein
• Any food dog is not used to
• Food that is toxic to all dogs (grapes, xylitol, macadamia nuts)

Human Food for Dogs with Pancreatitis

Table food and treats should make up no more than 10% of your dogs caloric intake. That means you should only give a bite or two of these each day!

Below is a list of some low-fat and higher-fat human foods. The list is not all-inclusive. And remember that feeding a high-fat item all by itself is more likely to cause pancreas problems than feeding it with a full meal without a lot of fat. Every dog has different tolerances, so start very slowly with any new food and watch for adverse reactions.

OK (Low Fat)	CAUTION (Higher Fat)
Dairy: non-fat yogurt, low-fat cottage cheese, low-fat cream cheese	Dairy: cheese, full-fat yogurt, full-fat cottage cheese, butter
Egg whites	Egg yolks
Fruit: banana, blueberries, apple	Fatty meat: fatty hamburger, chicken skin, salmon, bacon
Grain/legumes: plain corn/popcorn, oats, wheat, rice, peas, beans, lentils	Oils/fats: coconut oil, olive oil, canola oil (all oils)
LEAN meat: chicken breast, low-fat beef, turkey breast, white fish	Nut butter: peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter (all nut butters)
Vegetables: carrots, pumpkin, potatoes,

Practical Tips for Feeding a Dog with Pancreatitis

You should be cautious when introducing new foods or changing the diet of a dog prone to pancreatitis.

A dogs GI tract becomes accustomed to digesting one particular kind of food every day, it can be thrown into chaos if the diet is abruptly changed. By making a gradual transition to new foods, the digestive tract will have time to adapt. Plan to make the transition over a period of 7-14 days, each day adding a bit more of the new food and removing a bit of the old food.

Watch for poor appetite, diarrhea and vomiting. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet for advice on how to proceed. You may need to change more gradually, return to the previous food, choose a different food or have more diagnostic testing done.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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What Can a Dog with Pancreatitis Eat? & Foods to Avoid (a Vets Guide)

As a veterinarian, I often come across concerned pet owners wondering about the best diet for their furry friends dealing with pancreatitis.

In this guide, Ill provide valuable insights into what foods are suitable for dogs with pancreatitis and which ones should be avoided.

Lets ensure our beloved companions receive the nutrition they need while managing this condition effectively.

Safe Food Options for Dogs with Pancreatitis

If your furry friend is dealing with pancreatitis, its crucial to provide them with a diet that supports their healing process.

In this section, Ill share vet-approved food options specially curated for dogs suffering from this condition.

These safe choices prioritize easily digestible proteins, alternative protein sources, and nutrient-rich vegetables that wont trigger inflammation.

1. Lean Proteins: Boiled Chicken or Turkey

When it comes to selecting proteins for your dog with pancreatitis, lean options are key.

Cooked chicken or turkey (without skin) can be excellent choices as they offer high-quality protein without excessive fat content.

Boiling the meat ensures easy digestion while preserving essential nutrients.

2. Alternative Protein Sources: Low-Fat Cottage Cheese or Plain Yogurt

If youre looking to diversify your dogs protein intake while keeping fat levels low, consider adding low-fat cottage cheese or plain yogurt into their meals.

These dairy options serve as nutritious alternatives and are generally well-tolerated by dogs with pancreatitis.

3. Nutrient-Rich Vegetables: Pumpkin or Sweet Potatoes

Incorporating vegetables into your canine companions diet provides valuable nutrients without triggering inflammation of the pancreas.

Opt for cooked pumpkin or sweet potatoes to add fiber and essential vitamins like A and C to their meals. Remember to remove any seasonings before serving.

Moderation is Key: Portion Control and Feeding Frequency

When it comes to our furry friends, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for their overall well-being. One essential factor often overlooked is portion control.

In this section, I will explain why portion control plays a vital role in preventing digestive issues and offer recommendations for feeding frequency to promote optimal health.

1. The Importance of Portion Control

Overloading your dogs digestive system with large portions can lead to various problems such as indigestion, bloating, or even obesity. J

ust like humans, dogs have specific dietary needs that must be met in moderation.

• Digestive Health: Properly sized portions allow the digestive system to efficiently break down food and absorb nutrients without strain.
• Weight Management: Controlling portion sizes helps prevent excessive weight gain which can lead to joint issues and other health complications.

2. Embracing Smaller, Frequent Meals

Instead of relying on one large meal per day, consider transitioning your dog towards smaller but more frequent meals throughout the day.

• Sustained Energy: Regular small meals provide a steady supply of energy throughout the day rather than experiencing energy spikes followed by crashes.
• Preventing Hunger Pangs: Frequent feeding prevents hunger pangs between long gaps without food and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Foods to Avoid for Dogs with Pancreatitis

When it comes to managing pancreatitis in dogs, certain foods can be detrimental to their health.

In this section, I will outline common food items that should be strictly avoided due to their potential harmful effects.

1. High-Fat Foods: A Recipe for Trouble

High-fat foods pose a significant risk for dogs suffering from pancreatitis.

These include fatty meats like bacon or sausage, fried snacks such as french fries or potato chips, and processed treats laden with unhealthy fats.

Consuming these items can trigger inflammation in the pancreas and worsen the condition.

2. Steering Clear of Sugary and High-Carbohydrate Fare

Just like humans, dogs with pancreatitis should avoid sugary and high-carbohydrate foods.

These types of ingredients can exacerbate symptoms while contributing to weight gaina factor that puts additional strain on an already compromised pancreas.

Transitioning Diet Safely & Consulting a Veterinarian

When it comes to changing your dogs diet, ensuring a safe and smooth transition is crucial for their overall well-being.

In this section, Ill provide valuable advice on gradually transitioning their food while keeping a close eye on any adverse reactions that may occur during the process.

Additionally, Ill emphasize the importance of seeking professional guidance from a veterinarian who can customize dietary recommendations based on your furry friends individual needs.

1. Gradual Transition: A Recipe for Success

Transitioning your dogs diet should be done gradually to minimize digestive upset and allow their system to adapt smoothly. Follow these steps:

• Start Slow: Begin by mixing small amounts of the new food with their current food. Start with 25% new food and 75% old food.
• Monitor & Adjust: Observe how your pet responds to the new diet mix over several days or weeks. Look out for signs of gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting or diarrhea.
• Increase Proportion: Gradually increase the proportion of new food while decreasing the amount of old food until you reach 100% new food in their bowl.

2. The Role of Veterinary Guidance

Consulting with a veterinarian throughout this process is invaluable in ensuring optimal health outcomes for your canine companion:

• Personalized Recommendations: A veterinarian can assess your dogs specific nutritional requirements based on factors like age, breed, activity level, and existing health conditions.
• Allergies or Sensitivities: They can help identify potential allergies or sensitivities and recommend suitable alternatives.
• Monitoring Health Changes: Regular check-ups allow veterinarians to track changes in weight, body condition score, and overall health status making necessary adjustments if needed.

Frequently Asked Question

1. What is pancreatitis in dogs, and why is diet important for managing it?

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause digestive issues in dogs.

Diet plays a crucial role in managing pancreatitis as certain foods can trigger flare-ups or worsen symptoms.

2. What are some safe food options for dogs with pancreatitis?

A low-fat diet consisting of easily digestible proteins like lean chicken or turkey can be suitable.

Cooked vegetables such as sweet potatoes and green beans may also be included.

3. Are there specific foods that should be avoided to prevent exacerbating pancreatitis?

High-fat foods like fatty meats, fried items, butter, and oils should be strictly avoided.

Rich treats, gravies, processed snacks, and high-fat dairy products must also be excluded from their diet.

4. Can I feed my dog commercial pet food if they have pancreatitis?

Its essential to choose specially formulated low-fat commercial dog food designed for pancreatic health.Consult with your veterinarian to select a suitable brand that meets your dogs dietary needs.

5. Are there any additional dietary considerations for dogs with chronic or recurrent pancreatitis?

Some veterinarians recommend feeding smaller meals throughout the day instead of two larger ones.Ensuring adequate hydration by providing fresh water at all times is crucial for overall well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, providing the right diet is crucial when caring for a dog with pancreatitis. As a responsible pet owner, I understand the importance of feeding my furry friend foods that promote healing and minimize flare-ups. By following this vets guide, I can confidently make informed choices about what my dog can eat.