Pancreatitis typically refers to inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis is caused when digestive enzymes leak and digest the pancreas and other organs.  It can happen in two forms:

1. Acute Pancreatitis – which is sudden. Loss of appetite, abdomen feels tender to the dog/ cat, dehydration, vomiting or diarrhea, pain are some of the symptoms. Please see the vet asap. 
2. Chronic Pancreatitis – happens over and over. Loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea are some of the symptoms. Will be worth a vet checkup. 

The triggers for pancreatitis are varied and it is not always clear what is causing it. However, once a pet has pancreatitis, typically lower fats in foods are recommended by all vets. Holistic vets will go further and recommend less processed or dry foods and the addition of digestive enzymes. 

Here's a protocol from a holistic vet for home management of chronic pancreatitis:

1. Start with a bland diet, bone broth or cooked meat with pumpkin. 
2. Once your pet is doing better, use a less processed pet food either raw, canned diet  or gently-cooked and start with small quantities at first to ensure healing continues. 
3. Add a pet-specific digestive enyzme that includes pancreas or pancreatic enzymes. One that includes probiotics is good. 
4. Reduce your pet's weight.