Recognizing potential symptoms of diabetes is important to pet health. With pet obesity on the rise, diabetes is a growing concern. Regular veterinary check-ups are an important part of catching diabetes early.
What is Diabetes Mellitus in Pets?
Diabetes mellitus is a common disease in cats and dogs. Some people call this disease sugar diabetes. Diabetes occurs when insulin is not being adequately produced in the pancreas. This results in hyperglycemia which is also known as high blood sugar. There is also an increase in sugar in the urine which can contribute to dehydration.
Signs of Diabetes in Dogs and Cats
Initial symptoms of diabetes in dogs and cats are increased thirst, frequent urination, large appetite and weight loss. A veterinarian can conduct laboratory tests to determine if these symptoms are caused by diabetes. The veterinarian will be checking glucose levels in blood and urine. Catching diabetes in cats and dogs early is so important. More severe symptoms could present in advanced cases. Lethargy, vomiting, weakness and even diabetic coma can be seen in pets with advanced diabetes mellitus.
Treatment
Treatment of pet diabetes is done through diet and daily injections of insulin. Dietary management is an incredibly important part of treating canine diabetes and feline diabetes. Great care should be taken to ensure pets do not become overweight or obese. In addition to diet, a veterinarian can prescribe a daily insulin schedule that is safe for one’s dog or cat. Owners dealing with pet diabetes can expect frequent trips to the vet to test blood sugar. Over a period of time, a refined insulin schedule can ensure a happy and healthy diabetic pet. Learn more about diabetic dog food.
Diabetes in Dogs
Canine diabetes typically occurs in middle aged dogs. Some breeds are predisposed to getting diabetes. A few of the breeds more commonly diagnosed with diabetes are listed below:
Diabetes in Cats
All different types of cats can be at risk for diabetes. Feline diabetes is typically seen in older cats, but even young cats can have diabetes. There doesn’t seem to be any breed predisposition on cats.
Diabetes Complications
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a potentially life threatening complication. This occurs when ketones build up in the bloodstream due to over metabolizing fat rather than sugar. Ketoacidosis is characterized by vomiting, rapid breathing, weakness and the smell of acetone on the pet’s breath. If there is any diabetes complications, you should go to a vet and have your pet checked up.
Routine veterinary visits are important to pet health. A veterinarian can monitor metabolic changes in aging dogs and cats. Proper management of diabetes is important to ensuring a healthy happy pet. Catching diabetes early is the best way to promote longevity and health in aging pets. Is your dog not eating well or has lost it’s appetite? Click here to find out more about the common reasons why your dog is not eating.
