Change in Water Intake

Epi4Dogs Foundation Inc.’s mission is the advancement of science and education relating to EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency), yielding useful insights and positive outcomes in better managing EPI in dogs and cats. Our goals are to support and/or collaborate with veterinary EPI research and researchers, and to promote EPI awareness by educating the general public, pet owners, pet organizations, rescue and shelter organizations, veterinary schools and veterinarians.
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NewtonMom
Member
Posts: 1
Country: United States
State: New Jersey
Pet name: Newton

Change in Water Intake

Post by NewtonMom » 20 Mar 2023, 21:39

I have an almost 8 year old Belgian Malinois diagnosed with EPI in July 2022. He dropped from 63 pounds to 46 pounds before we figured out what was wrong, but he gained all his weight back by January 2023. His original enzymes were PancrePlus. We changed to Diane’s Enzymes at the end of December 2022. He did well on the transition.

I noticed he started drinking bowls of water in the last few weeks. At least twice as much as normal. I haven’t measured by cup, but he drains just about two large bowls and two to three small bowls of water now daily. We live in northeast, so temps are cool. His exercise has been consistent.

We weighed him tonight and he’s lost about three pounds (normal weight is 63lbs) and is down to 60lbs. His energy seems OK, and he continues to eat well (175g Science Diet Sensitive Stomach Chicken w/4.2g enzyme twice daily), though he is begging a lot more and starting to trash dig on occasion like he did before the diagnosis. He seems constantly hungry. His urine seems normal (though constantly going potty) and his stool is still firm.

Just wondering if anyone has experienced anything similar. Particularly concerned whether the enzyme change may not be working even though his stool is OK. And, wondering if any of the B12/vitamin deficiencies associated with EPI could be a factor in the drinking. I appreciate any suggestions/ideas this group may have.

Thanks!

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jilbert57
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Posts: 2092
Country: United States
State: Washington

Re: Change in Water Intake

Post by jilbert57 » 20 Mar 2023, 22:52

How long has it been since bloods were drawn? Possible diabetes or a UTI? Also liver and kidneys can be involved possibly.
Are you supplementing daily with B12?
Are you hearing any tummy rumblings or acid reflux?
I think I might start with a vet visit if it has been awhile.

Jill
My name is Jill and we live on the Hood Canal in Washington State. We currently have 2 Jack russells, TJ is 8 and Sadie is 2.

Mickey and his pancreatitis brought me to Epi4dogs.com site in 2012 to help manage it.
He lived from 6/99 - 8/2014

Mickey, Jack Russell. Chronic Pancreatitis. Dianes enzymes, 1/8t 3x/day with meals.

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Olesia711
Founder & Research Director
Posts: 3858
Location: North Carolina
Country: United States
State: North Carolina
Pet name: Izzy
My name: olesia

Re: Change in Water Intake

Post by Olesia711 » 21 Mar 2023, 12:09

i too was thinking possible diabetes or a UTI.... since your dog has long since been acclimated to enzymes, it's not the initial reaction of excess thirst to the enzymes.... If possible i would bring to the vet and have some tests done sooner rather than later..........
Olesia, was owned by Izzy, a 35lb Spanish Water Dog (SWD), Diagnosed at 1.5 years old - TLI results 1.. Izzy passed away on February 13, 2020 at 15 years old. She lived with EPI for 13+1/2 years. It was because of Izzy that Epi4Dogs was started... she was the inspiration. May her legacy of helping others with EPI continue for as long as needed.........

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