Pancreatitis is a serious medical condition that people can often develop for various reasons, but it's also important to know that this condition can affect cats. Understanding the changes that may indicate your feline family member is suffering from pancreatitis should encourage you to visit an emergency veterinary clinic with the animal. Even if you notice these symptoms after business hours, many emergency clinics are open later than standard vet clinics. There are several signs that may indicate your cat is dealing with a case of pancreatitis, including the following.

Vomiting

A cat will throw up for a lot of reasons, but chronic vomiting can often be a warning sign of pancreatitis. If the cat vomits once, you don't automatically need to assume that it has pancreatitis. The animal may simply be throwing up a hairball. However, one incident of vomiting should encourage you to be attentive about the cat's condition. Subsequent bouts of vomiting may mean that the animal has pancreatitis, especially if you notice one or more other symptoms that are indicative of this condition.

Pain Response

One of the reasons that it's important to get prompt care for a cat that is suffering from pancreatitis is that this condition can be very painful. Another indicator that your pet may have pancreatitis is that it's showing signs of being in pain. For example, if you attempt to touch the pet around its midsection, where its pain will be the worst, it may try to get away from you or even act aggressively. Cats can also show signs of pain by hiding, writhing in an effort to reduce the discomfort, and other behavioral changes. The vet clinic will ask about what indicators of pain you see in your cat when you call to set an appointment, so be sure to explain these things clearly to convey the seriousness of the situation.

Weakness

A cat that is suffering from pancreatitis will often act weak. The weakness occurs partly because of the cat's pain, but also from the fact that an acute case of pancreatitis will typically curb the animal's appetite. Indicators of weakness can include the cat staying on its bed for prolonged periods that it would otherwise spend walking around your home and engaging with your family. It may also walk in a labored manner that catches your attention.

For more information, contact an emergency animal clinic near you.