Amylase is a digestive enzyme that helps dogs process carbohydrates for nutrient absorption. Understanding its function can help dog owners recognize potential health concerns.
What Amylase Does for Your Dog’s Digestion
Amylase primarily functions to break down complex carbohydrates, such as starches, into simpler sugars like maltose and glucose. This process begins as food mixes with saliva, though in dogs, the majority of amylase action occurs in the small intestine. The pancreas is the main producer of amylase, releasing it into the small intestine to continue carbohydrate digestion. Small amounts of amylase are also produced in the intestines and liver.
The efficiency of this breakdown is important for nutrient absorption and energy production. Without enough amylase, dogs might struggle to digest carbohydrate-rich foods, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset or malabsorption. Sufficient amylase supports overall metabolic processes, energy levels, and immune function.
Recognizing Amylase Imbalances
When amylase levels in a dog’s body are imbalanced, it can signal underlying health issues. High amylase levels often point to conditions like pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis can manifest with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and a loss of appetite. The abdominal pain might cause a dog to adopt a “prayer position,” stretching their front legs forward while keeping their rear elevated.
Other potential causes for elevated amylase include pancreatic cancer, severe trauma, or chronic kidney disease. Medications like metronidazole and furosemide can also temporarily increase amylase levels. On the other hand, low amylase levels can indicate Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes. Dogs with EPI often show symptoms like chronic diarrhea, significant weight loss despite a ravenous appetite, and pale, loose, greasy, or foul-smelling stools. They might also engage in coprophagia (eating stools) or pica (eating non-food items).
Diagnosing and Addressing Amylase Issues
Veterinarians diagnose amylase imbalances through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and specific diagnostic tests. Blood tests, particularly serum amylase and lipase levels, are commonly used to assess pancreatic function. While elevated amylase can suggest pancreatitis, levels can fluctuate and may also be increased by conditions like kidney disease or intestinal issues.
A more specific test for pancreatitis in dogs is the canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI) test, which is highly specific to the pancreas. Imaging techniques like abdominal ultrasound are also valuable as they allow veterinarians to visualize the pancreas and surrounding organs, helping to rule out other conditions. Treatment approaches depend entirely on the underlying cause of the amylase imbalance.
For high amylase due to pancreatitis, supportive care is the mainstay. This often involves intravenous (IV) fluid therapy, pain management with opioids, and antiemetic medications to control vomiting. Dietary management, usually a low-fat diet, is also important.
For low amylase levels indicative of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), the primary treatment involves lifelong pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. These enzymes are mixed with each meal to aid in digestion.
Additionally, dogs with EPI often have cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiencies, which may require supplementation. Dietary adjustments, such as feeding an easily digestible, low-fiber diet, can also be beneficial in managing EPI symptoms.