The holiday season is here, bringing good food, time with loved ones, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. As tempting as it may be to share a little of that festive feast with your pet, even small indulgences can lead to serious health issues—especially pancreatitis.

Just like humans, pets can develop pancreatitis when the pancreas becomes inflamed and digestive enzymes activate too early, damaging internal tissue. It’s painful, potentially life-threatening, and more common during the holidays. Understanding what causes pancreatitis can help you keep your pet safe this season.

What Causes Pancreatitis?

A common trigger we see for this condition in pets is eating high-fat foods, like greasy meats, cheese, or gravy. That’s why vet clinics often see a spike in pancreatitis in dogs after holiday meals.

The good news is, it’s easier to prevent pancreatitis than to treat it. Avoid giving your pets too many holiday foods, especially if it’s an especially fatty meal. Make sure to secure your garbage to prevent your pet from rummaging for leftover scraps. Stick with your pet-safe snacks and foods; they’ll still love the attention and treats you give them.

Symptoms to Look Out For

Common symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs and cats include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fever

• Lethargy

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhea

• Decreased appetite

It’s important to contact your veterinarian as soon as you see persistent symptoms. Understanding pancreatitis symptoms can be overwhelming and confusing, but early action can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Treatment Options

Your pet's treatment plan will depend on the severity of the disease and underlying causes, if there are any. Our top priorities when treating pancreatitis are to treat abdominal pain, curb dehydration, and control nausea.

Mild cases might simply call for a temporary change in diet and pain medication. More severe cases could call for hospitalization. Your veterinarian might discuss lifelong health changes your companion may need to take, including diet, supplements, or medication.

No one wants to spend their holidays at the doctor's office, and that includes your pet. However, if something feels off or you notice any of the warning signs, don’t hesitate to visit us any time of day, or night. Emergency Pet Care of Texas will be open 24/7, so you can enjoy the holidays a little easier.

With a bit more awareness and care, you and your furry companion can enjoy the festivities together. We wish your entire family a safe, warm, and happy holiday season!