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Amylase

A representation of Amylase

Amylase is an enzyme that is responsible for the digestion of carbohydrates. It is found in both the saliva and the pancreas of dogs. In this blog post, you can find out more about the function, measurement and possible disorders of amylase in dogs.

What is amylase and how does it work?

Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into smaller sugar molecules. These can then be absorbed by the intestine and used as a source of energy. Amylase occurs in two forms: Alpha-amylase and pancreatic amylase. Alpha-amylase is produced in the mouth and begins digesting starch there. Pancreatic amylase is produced in the pancreas and enters the small intestine via the pancreatic duct, where it continues the digestion of carbohydrates.

How is amylase measured in dogs?

The concentration of amylase in the blood or urine can be an indication of the function of the pancreas. Elevated amylase can indicate inflammation or damage to the pancreas, for example in acute or chronic pancreatitis. Decreased amylase can indicate insufficient production or destruction of the pancreas, for example in the case of pancreatic insufficiency or a pancreatic tumor.

Amylase is usually measured as part of a blood count or urine status. The activity of the enzyme is indicated in units per liter (U/L). The normal reference values can vary depending on the laboratory and measurement method, but are usually between 500 and 1500 U/L for blood amylase and between 1000 and 4000 U/L for urine amylase.

What factors can influence amylase in dogs?

Amylase in dogs can be affected not only by pancreatic disease, but also by other factors. These include:

  • Diet: a high carbohydrate diet can lead to an increase in amylase as more enzymes are needed to digest the carbohydrates.
  • Breed: Some dog breeds naturally have higher or lower amylase levels than others. For example, Greyhounds have a lower amylase than other breeds, but this is not a sign of disease.
  • Age: Amylase decreases with age as the pancreas becomes less active.
  • Medication: Some medications can increase or decrease amylase, for example cortisone, painkillers or antibiotics.

How can amylase be regulated in dogs?

Amylase in dogs can be regulated by adapting the diet and treating the underlying cause. If the pancreas is inflamed or damaged, a low-fat and easily digestible diet should be fed to reduce the stress on the gland. In addition, enzyme supplements can be administered to aid digestion. If the pancreas is not functioning properly or is destroyed, a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet should be fed to meet energy requirements. Hormone supplements can also be administered to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Amylase in dogs is an important indicator of the health of the pancreas and should be checked regularly. In the event of deviations from normal values, a vet should always be consulted to determine the cause and initiate appropriate therapy.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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