Dog Diabetes: Signs and Symptoms
Did you know dogs can get diabetes too? Today we’re going to explain dog diabetes and show you what to look for, how to treat it, and how to prevent this common canine disease.
What is Diabetes?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) defines diabetes as “ a chronic disease that can affect dogs and cats and other animals (including apes, pigs, and horses) as well as humans. Although diabetes can’t be cured, it can be managed very successfully.”
What’s most often seen in dogs is diabetes mellitus. This occurs when glucose-insulin mechanism in dogs is not working properly. In dogs specifically, it’s usually an issue where the dog’s pancreas is not producing enough insulin. These dogs will need to be supplemented with insulin.
On the other hand, there are is also insulin-resistance. This occurs when the body is producing insulin, but the cells are not responding properly to it.
Another concern is the damage untreated diabetes can cause. Because dogs are being starved of their sugar or energy, they may lose a lot of weight as their body begins to use fat as energy instead. Also, too much sugar in the bloodstream may damage organs. Like people, diabetes can affect eyesight as well – causing irreparable damage.
Causes of Dog Diabetes
There are several risk factors that may cause a dog to develop diabetes. These include:
- Obesity: Like people, obesity puts dogs at risk of diabetes as it leads to pancreas inflammation and uncontrolled blood sugars.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can inhibit insulin production.
- Gender: Un-spayed female dogs are nearly twice as likely to develop diabetes compared to a male dog.
- Age: Dogs age 5 and older are more likely to get diabetes.
- Steroid use or Cushing’s Disease: Long term use of steroid medications or Cushing’s Disease (which causes the body to produce natural steroids) can lead to the development of diabetes.
- Genetics: According to the AKC, “Diabetes can occur in any breed or mixed-breed, and it seems genetics can play a role in either increased or reduced risk. A 2003 study found that overall, mixed-breeds are no less prone to diabetes than are purebreds. Among purebreds, breeds vary in susceptibility, some with very low risk and others with higher risk. Some that may be at higher risk include miniature Poodles, Bichons Frises, Pugs, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Puli, Samoyeds, Keeshonds, Australian Terriers, Fox Terriers, Cairn Terriers, and Beagles.”
If your dog is at risk due to any of the above, be sure to share your concerns with your vet.
Signs & Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs
The signs and symptoms of dog diabetes are fairly like those in people. Here’s what you should look out for:
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Extremely hungry
- Losing weight
- Sleeping more often
- Clouding eyes
If your dog is experiencing one or a combination of these symptoms, it’s time to visit a vet.
How to Manage Dog Diabetes
Managing dog diabetes is easier than you’d think. For the most part, you can expect to both monitor blood glucose daily and provide insulin shots.
Of course, you’re not alone. Your vet will guide you through the process of diabetes management and treatment. With a combination of medications, diet and exercise, your dog has a good chance at leading a long, fruitful life.
Here’s some solid advice from the American Veterinary Medical Association, “It is also very important that your pet maintains a normal appetite while on insulin therapy, or you risk hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if your pet is not eating and absorbing enough sugars to balance the insulin’s effect of removing the sugars from the bloodstream.”
That means you will need to check your dog’s blood and urine glucose levels. Regular exams and tests ordered by your vet will likely be done in addition at-home monitoring.
Remember, treatment will be lifelong. So, it’s important you be prepared for that emotionally and financially. Of course, the BEST way to make sure this doesn’t happen to your pet is to actively prevent it.
How to Prevent Diabetes in Dogs
Prevention is the key to ensuring the overall health and wellness of your dog. Believe it or not, preventing diabetes is as easy as controlling exercise and diet.
Exercise
It seems simple but keeping your dog from becoming overweight is important to preventing diabetes. Your dog needs stimulation, which will lead to emotional happiness too. A tired dog, after a workout, is a happy dog.
Diet
Some dogs are more prone to overeating. To prevent this. Keep a good feeding schedule and when you see your dog gaining too much weight, cut back on treats and serving sizes. Like people, what they eat should directly correlate to how much they move. It’s all about calories in and calories out.
With a little discipline, your dog will be safe from the risk factors associated with dog diabetes.