Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) in dogs is an incurable condition, but thankfully not a death sentence. Find out how this illness affects the canine body and learn the dietary changes to make that can keep it from worsening.
What Is EPI in Dogs?
EPI or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in dogs happens when the exocrine pancreas fails to produce sufficient secretion of pancreatic enzymes in the small intestine. For this reason, it also goes by the name of small intestinal disease.
This condition leads to the improper breakdown of carbohydrates, fatty acids, and proteins, eventually causing poor nutrient absorption in the body.
Any dog can develop EPI, but some breeds are more susceptible than others due to genetic predisposition, such as:
- Akitas
- Australian Heelers
- Border Collies
- Chow Chows
- Cairn Terriers
- German Shepherd Dogs
- Shetland Sheepdogs
- West Highland White Terriers
The most common cause of EPI in dogs is pancreatic acinar atrophy (PAA), which destroys pancreatic cells responsible for making digestive enzymes. Other illnesses like chronic pancreatitis and cancer are also potential culprits.
Read: Digestive System Enzyme Supplements for Dogs
What Are Symptoms of EPI in Dogs?
Canines that developed EPI have a hard time digesting their food. The common symptoms they tend to exhibit include:
- Increased appetite
- Indiscriminate eating
- Chronic diarrhea
- Soft, fatty poop
- Vomiting
- Excessive weight loss
- Anorexia
- Flatulence
- Poor coat health
If you suspect that your pet has EPI, get him examined by the veterinarian. They will carry out a series of diagnostic tests such as blood tests and trypsin-like immunoreactivity (TLI) tests to confirm its presence.
The standard form of treatment for EPI in dogs is the prescription of pancreatic enzyme supplements. Making specific changes to their diets can also help prevent this lifelong disease from progressing.
3 Natural Ways to Manage EPI in Dogs
Following these tips makes EPI a less crippling health problem on affected pets:
1. Incorporate Raw Pancreas Meat into Your Dog’s Diet
As mentioned earlier, EPI in dogs hinders the proper production of pancreatic enzymes. Feeding your furry pal with pancreas meat can help reverse this issue since the organ houses these enzymes.
Offer it to him raw as exposure to high heat will significantly reduce its enzymatic activity. The ideal amount of pancreatitis meat will depend on your pet’s condition.
Seek a veterinarian or a certified canine nutritionist to know the correct portions you should give to your dog.
If it’s your dog’s first time consuming this food, start feeding him the organ in small quantities, ideally around 2 teaspoons per 44 pounds (20 kilos) of body weight, to avoid upsetting his stomach. Slowly increase its amount day after day if he does not exhibit stomach upset.
For easier feeding, grind the raw pancreas meat, slather it into an ice cube tray, and place it in the freezer. Then you can bring out the frozen meat cubes and thaw them during mealtimes.
Remember to carry out proper sanitary measures when handling raw meat. Raw food can house bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, which cause food-borne illnesses.
While dogs are not highly susceptible to these health problems, pets with EPI have weakened immune systems, putting them at risk of contracting contagious diseases.
2. Increase Your Dog’s Vitamin B12 Intake
EPI in dogs can cause malabsorption of vitamin B12 or cobalamin, which leads to deficiency or hypocobalaminemia. If your dog has developed this health complication, supplementing his meals with cobalamin-rich food is a good idea.
Some good sources of this nutrient are:
- Beef liver
- Clams
- Eggs
- Ground lean turkey
- Low-fat and sodium cheddar cheese
- Nori
- Tuna
- Oysters
- Sardines
Cobalamin deficiency is detrimental to your dog’s health if not addressed. Health issues like anorexia, gastrointestinal upset, and oral ulcerations may take place.
Read: Can Dogs Eat Liver?
3. Mind the Fat Content of Your Pet’s Meals
Experts used to believe that a low-fat meal is the appropriate diet to combat EPI in dogs. According to them, it helps improve the digestion of affected pooches and reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.
However, others believe this hampers fat assimilation, increasing the danger of life-threatening complications linked to fat-soluble vitamin hypovitaminoses.
They also noted that high-fat diets can aid in boosting energy, improving appetite, and promoting weight gain in dogs with EPI.
With this in mind, be extra careful when making adjustments to the fat content of your dog’s diet.
Low-fat meals are more suitable for canines that develop EPI due to chronic pancreatitis. It prevents aggravating the inflammation in the pancreas and allows the organ to rest.
On the other hand, high-fat meals are beneficial for underweight or anorexic dogs with EPI since it helps them gain weight. Work with a canine nutritionist to find out which option works best for your furry pal’s condition.
FAQs About EPI in Dogs
1. Can EPI in Dogs Be Cured?
EPI in dogs cannot be cured, and this condition requires lifelong treatment. Fortunately, most dogs suffering from such illness usually have a good prognosis as long as their treatment is consistent. They can live long and normal lives.
2. At What Age Does EPI Start in Dogs?
EPI in dogs can start anywhere between the ages of 6 months and 6 years old. The time of its onset depends on the root cause.
For instance, pancreatic acinar atrophy-induced EPI is commonly observed in younger dogs. Meanwhile, EPI resulting from chronic pancreatitis often occurs in older canines.
3. Are Dogs With EPI Always Hungry?
Dogs with EPI are often always hungry because their condition causes them to poop in increased volumes.
Even though they have a ravenous appetite, it is common for them to suffer from weight loss and anorexia due to impaired digestion and poor nutrient absorption.
4. Can Dogs With EPI Gain Weight?
Dogs with EPI can gain weight if they are fed the appropriate type of diet. Offering them high-fat meals allows them to pack pounds more quickly due to their high caloric density.
However, beware that this diet can worsen chronic pancreatitis. If your canine companion is suffering from this disease, check with the veterinarian first before making any changes to your dog’s fat intake.
Conclusion
Dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency struggle with a lifelong condition.
On the brighter side, they can enjoy long and healthy lives if given proper treatment. Pairing medical therapy with the right dietary choices increases their chances of achieving this goal.
