Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs when a dog’s body lacks the proper enzymes it needs to break down certain foods, such as fats, starches and proteins. Because of this, the nutritious components in the food stay in the intestinal tract and are passed out whole in the dog’s feces. Without treatment, dogs with this serious disorder will often starve to death, despite eating constantly, states Dr. Race Foster of the Pet Education website. There are a variety of causes for this condition, including cancer, chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic acinar atrophy. If you notice any of the symptoms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in your dog, take it to a vet immediately for treatment.
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Behavioral Changes
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Dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency may display behavior that is abnormal for them. Dr. Bari Spielman of the website Pet Place website states that dogs with this condition will often eat peculiar objects, such as plants, dirt or stool. The dog will eat constantly and try to consume as much food as possible. It may also become protective of its food and try to take food from other animals and humans. The reason for this gluttonous behavior is that the dog is not absorbing any calories or nutrients from the food and continually feels that it is hungry, despite the massive amounts of food it takes in.
Gastrointestinal Problems
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According to Spielman, dogs suffering from exocrine pancreatic insufficiency will often have diarrhea. The loose stool is usually light yellow or clay-colored and can have the consistency of mashed potatoes. Sometimes the stool is completely watery without any form whatsoever. The dog may also have large amounts of undigested fat in its stool, depending on its diet. In addition, it may have excessive flatulence and its stomach may make loud noises because of the gas.
Changes in Appearance
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Dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency will often look as though they are starving to death, because in essence they are. Foster states that affected dogs will experience rapid weight loss because of the loss of body fat and muscle atrophy. Because the dog is not getting any nutrients, its coat becomes poor. These symptoms can occur quickly—over about a week or two—or can gradually develop over a long period.
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