Did you know that approximately one percent of our canine companions develop diabetes at some time in their lives? Although diabetes is less common in pets than in humans, it is not unheard of. This post by a local Saginaw, MI veterinarian discusses some basic information regarding diabetes in pets.

What Is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes affects both humans and pets in very identical ways. It is a condition caused by the pet’s inability to correctly digest glucose, which is required to sustain the body. This is when insulin comes into action. Insulin regulates the mechanism by which glucose is converted into fuel. To put it another way, insulin controls the physiological process that transforms Fido’s favorite canine treat into a round of zoomies and happy dances. When that process fails, it hurts your pet’s health.

As you may be aware, diabetes is classified into two types.

• Type 1 insulin-deficiency diabetes occurs when the body fails to manufacture insulin. This is generally caused by pancreatic injury or malfunction. If Fido develops this form of diabetes, he will require daily insulin shots. This is the most common variety for our canine companions.
• Type 2 insulin resistance diabetes occurs when the body is unable to adequately metabolize insulin. In other circumstances, the dog’s pancreas generates some insulin, but it is insufficient or the cells are unable to properly digest it. This is particularly common in overweight or elderly dogs. It’s also the most prevalent type among cats.
• Female dogs might also develop diabetes during pregnancy.

Regardless of what the pet ate, both sorts eventually leave the body famished for energy. For further information, ask your Saginaw, MI veterinarian.

What Are The Health Risks Associated With Diabetes?

Diabetes can create a variety of secondary health issues, some of which are life-threatening. Cataracts, liver difficulties, kidney disorders, and seizures are a few examples. 

Then there’s ketoacidosis, which is quite dangerous. When the body is truly starving for fuel, it begins to break down fat and protein. This generates ketones. You’ve definitely heard the phrase ‘ketosis’ a lot, as it’s the foundation of the keto diet. However, whereas low levels of ketone bodies in the blood are acceptable, high levels are not. In fact, they can cause havoc in the body, triggering a chain reaction of negative consequences. They cause the blood to become more acidic, which disrupts the electrolyte balance. This, in turn, leads to dehydration. As the illness worsens, it can cause enlargement of brain cells, organ failure, and decreased muscle performance. Ketoacidosis can be fatal if not treated, so it is important to take this seriously.

For more precise information, speak with your Saginaw, MI veterinarian.

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Pets?

It’s always important to keep an eye on your pet and look for symptoms if something is wrong. Diabetes can be managed much more effectively with early intervention.

Here are some of the items to look for:

• Weakness
• Cloudy Eyes
• An unusual gait
• Poor Coat Condition
• Extreme thirst
• Increased urinary output
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Increased appetite (With or Without Weight Loss)
• Lethargy
• Skin Infection
• Urinary Tract Infections

If you observe any of these, contact your veterinarian straight away. Keep in mind that many of these symptoms can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, not only diabetes.

How Do I Take Care of My Diabetic Pet?

Once Fido and Fluffy are diagnosed with diabetes, they will most likely require lifelong therapy. However, there is no reason to panic. In many circumstances, caring for a diabetic pet will not be very different from caring for any other pet. 

Following a comprehensive evaluation of your pet, your vet will be able to provide particular treatment alternatives. 

These may include the following.

1. Insulin Injection: While it may seem scary at first, insulin injections are actually pretty straightforward. Once you and your pet are used to the routine, it should only take a few minutes per day.
2. Medication: Certain drugs can also help manage blood sugar levels.
3. Nutrition: Your pet’s nutrition is extremely important! Feed your dog or cat a high-quality brand with less carbs. Portion management is also very crucial in this situation. Even providing your pet with a few extra calories each day can lead to weight growth.

It’s also crucial to know what you shouldn’t give a diabetic pet. Anything containing corn syrup is an outright no. Sugary or honey-containing products are likewise not recommended. Additionally, you should limit Fido’s consumption of fatty foods like peanut butter.

4. Glucose Monitoring: You’ll need to check your pet’s glucose levels on a frequent basis, either through blood, urine, or both.
5. Watching For Symptoms: It’s also crucial to keep an eye on your pet. Watch out for indications of hypoglycemia and/or diabetic ketoacidosis. Some of them include weakness or lethargy, tremors, seizures, uncoordinated motions or unusual walking, sweet-smelling breath, acting quieter than normal, unwillingness to eat or drink, vomiting, diarrhea, disturbed or quick breathing, cataracts, high blood pressure, and urinary tract infections. If you detect any of these issues, please contact your veterinarian straight away.
6. Veterinary Care: Pets with diabetes may require more frequent visits, especially if they have additional medical conditions. Follow your vet’s recommended appointment schedule.

Last but not least, you must ensure that your pet is happy and healthy. Diabetic pets’ purrs and tail wags are truly precious! 

What are the Risk Factors for Diabetes in Pets?

Diabetes can develop in pets at any age. However, there are certain obvious risk factors. There is one breed. Diabetes can affect any pet, but certain breeds are more predisposed to it than others. Many small breeds of dogs are particularly vulnerable. 

Here are some of the dogs with highest risk:

• Dachshund
• Poodle
• Cocker Spaniel
• Bichon Frise
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Labrador Retriever
• Pomeranian
• Keeshond
• Samoyed 

The Tonkinese, Norwegian Forest, and Burmese cats are particularly vulnerable.

Other risk factors include the following:

• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Pancreatic Disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Kidney Disease
• Dental disease
• Infections of the urinary tract
• Skin infections
• Steroids

Amyloidosis would likewise pose a concern to cats. Dogs are also at risk for hypothyroidism, renal problems, and Cushing’s syndrome. Ask your vet for more information.

Contact Our Animal Clinic in Saginaw, MI Anytime!

Are you looking for a great veterinarian in your area? Do you need to bring your dog or cat in for a check-up? Contact us, your Saginaw, MI veterinary hospital, now!