Diet for dogs with pancreatitis
Pancreatitis often leads to a permanent dysfunction of the organ. The diet of your dog usually has to be changed in the long term, because sick four-legged friends can no longer utilize their food without problems.
The pancreas is an important part of the digestive tract. It secretes juices containing enzymes that break down food into its smallest components. If this no longer functions properly, nutrients cannot be utilized. The body can then no longer meet its needs for vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. The disease is often chronic, which is why dogs with pancreatitis usually need a special diet.
Easily digestible food for dogs with pancreatitis
Sick dogs are put on a special diet based on easily digestible gentle food. The food should be divided into three to four smaller portions a day so as not to put too much strain on the digestive tract. To ensure that your four-legged friend gets enough energy from his food despite his illness, you should make sure that he eats enough carbohydrates. However, these should be easily digestible. Ask your veterinarian for advice. He can also tell you whether additional important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, vitamin K or folic acid need to be added to the dog food. Furthermore, a particularly low-fat diet is necessary. The fat content in dry food should be reduced to about 10 to 15 percent, and in wet food to 2.5 to 4.5 percent. Coordinate this with your veterinarian as well.
Compensating for a lack of enzymes with the right diet
In the case of pancreatitis, the digestive enzymes that the organ can no longer produce itself often have to be replaced artificially. For example, there are preparations that are mixed with the dog’s food in the form of powder. The agent must “act” for 30 to 40 minutes until you can give it to your dog to eat. In this way, the food is predigested outside the body and can be better utilized. Again, it is important to consult with your veterinarian.
