Pancreas
Small organ near the stomach producing digestive enzymes (exocrine) and insulin (endocrine). Source of two important conditions: pancreatitis and diabetes.
The pancreas has two distinct functions. The **exocrine** pancreas produces digestive enzymes (lipase, amylase, proteases) that empty into the small intestine. The **endocrine** pancreas produces insulin (lowering blood sugar) and glucagon (raising blood sugar).
Two important conditions arise from pancreatic dysfunction. **Pancreatitis** is inflammation of the exocrine pancreas, often triggered by fatty meals in dogs and a vague illness in cats. **Diabetes mellitus** is failure of insulin production or insulin resistance, presenting with increased thirst and weight loss.
A third less common condition is **exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)** — the pancreas underproduces digestive enzymes, leading to chronic weight loss despite a huge appetite, voluminous greasy stools. German Shepherds are predisposed. Treatment is lifelong enzyme replacement.
Pancreatic cancer is uncommon but aggressive when it occurs.