Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis describes ongoing inflammation in the pancreas that persists or recurs over time. The pancreas sits near the stomach and small intestine, producing enzymes that help digest food and hormones that regulate blood sugar. When inflammation becomes a long-term pattern, the normal tissue can be gradually replaced by scar tissue, which may affect how well the organ works. Owners often arrive at this page because their dog or cat has had repeated episodes of digestive upset—vomiting, reduced appetite, weight loss, or abdominal discomfort—that seem to settle and then return. In cats particularly, the signs can be subtle and build slowly over months. The condition can exist on its own or alongside other problems affecting the liver or intestines. This page explores the signals that may suggest chronic pancreatitis, what is happening in the tissue over time, how the condition is investigated through blood tests and imaging, and the range of approaches used to manage it. The goal is to help you understand what this diagnosis means and what shape care may take.