Correct!

The answer is: Withold food

The severity of pancreatitis varies greatly between cases. Some animals have mild discomfort, some are extremely painful in the abdomen. The signs seen in each case vary and will vary in intensity, but here are the common signs:

• Vomiting
• Not eating
• Painful abdomen, hunched appearance (more common in dogs
• Fever or below-normal body temperature
• Diarrhea
• Depression
• Dehydration, evaluated by noting sunken eyes, dry mouth, and increased skin turgor (skin tents when pinched)

Because the intestinal tract is inflammed, witholding food will "rest" the gut and allow the pancreas to rest (not stimulate digestive enzyme production) and healing to occur. More serious cases also require that drinking water be witheld as well. This level of pancreatitis often necessitates hospitalization, as vomiting and diarrhea will dehydrate the animal very quickly. Witholding food and water while on IV (intravenous) fluids will rest the gut and keep the pet hydrated. Additional therapy is supportive, and may include: antibiotics, vitamins or other nutritional support, anti-nausea medication, and pain management medications.

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