What is diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease characterised by elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels. Insulin is the hormone responsible for lowering blood glucose and is produced by a digestive organ called the pancreas. In veterinary medicine DM can be divided into two different types; type 1 DM (insulin-dependent diabetes) or type 2 DM (non-insulin-dependent diabetes).

Type 1 DM – caused by the inability to produce sufficient insulin and is most commonly seen in dogs.

Type 2 DM – caused by the body becoming resistant to the effects of insulin or an insufficient production of insulin and is seen most commonly in cats.

How common is diabetes in pets?

A five year study published by the University of Queensland demonstrated a prevalence of 7.4 per 1000 cats, the incidence was significantly higher amongst the Burmese cat population. Risk factors include obesity, age (cats over seven appear at higher risk), breed, physical inactivity, gender and some medications.

In dogs one study reported a 0.34% incidence with certain breeds such as Cairn Terriers and Samoyed breeds over represented. In dogs DM can also occur secondary to other conditions such as pancreatitis, oestrus and Cushing’s disease.

What signs should I look out for?

The clinical signs of DM, regardless of type are the same: increased thirst, urination and hunger, inappropriate urination, weight loss, lethargy, weakness, poor skin and coat condition. In dogs, cataracts and blindness may also result.

How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diagnosis is confirmed by blood and urine testing.

How is diabetes managed in pets?

The management solution of both DM type 1 and 2 involves twice daily injections of insulin, consistent meals and exercise. Pets with type 1 DM will required life-long injections however there is an approximately 50% chance of remission for pets with type 2 DM provided early diagnosis and adequate management. Dogs and cats with well controlled diabetes can go on to lead normal lives and have the same life expectancy as non-diabetic dogs and cats.

Feline Diabetes or Diabetes Mellitus (DM)

DIABETES – AN OVERVIEW

When the digestive system breaks down food, carbohydrates are converted into simple sugars such as glucose. This  glucose is absorbed into the blood where it is transported around the body. Insulin, which is produced in the pancreas, helps move the glucose into the cells of the body where it is converted into fuel (energy).

Diabetes mellitus is a disease caused either by:

• A lack of insulin, or
• The body’s inadequate response to insulin

Whether insulin is insufficient, or the body responds inadequately to insulin, glucose is unable to enter cells; therefore, muscles and organs do not get the fuel needed to function, and blood glucose levels remain abnormally high in the bloodstream. Over time high levels of glucose in the blood can cause serious health problems.

DIABETES AND RISK FACTORS

Depending on the origin of diabetes, the condition is divided into two categories:

Type 1 or “Juvenile Diabetes” or “Insulin-dependent Diabetes”

Type 1 diabetes is caused by the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas. Because the destruction of the cells is not reversible, the animal must be treated with an external source of insulin. Both cats and dogs can suffer from Type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 or “Adult-onset Diabetes” or “Non-insulin-dependent Diabetes”

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar due to the body being resistant to insulin and a relative lack of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is found in cats, but not in dogs.

PREDISPOSITION TO DIABETES

Diabetes, and Type 2 diabetes specifically, is a common disorder in cats. It is estimated that diabetes or diabetes mellitus (DM) affects between 0.2 – 1% of cats in the general population.

The condition can be common in:

• Overweight cats
• Physically inactive cats
• Neutered male cats
• Middle-aged and senior cats
• Cats that exclusively eat a high carbohydrate diet
• Cats that have been on glucocorticoid (steroid) therapy

Pancreatitis and metabolic diseases, such as hyperthyroidism are also risk factors. Genetics can also play a role in diabetes. Burmese cats seem to be at a higher overall risk.

CLINICAL SIGNS OF DIABETES IN CATS

A diabetic cat may behave as if it is constantly hungry since the cells are not producing fuel. However, it may also appear malnourished despite overeating since the cells are unable absorb glucose.

Signs may include:

• Weight loss despite increased appetite
• Excessive thirst and urination
• Dehydration
• Walking or standing in a plantigrade posture (“down in the hocks”)

DIAGNOSIS OF DIABETES IN CATS

Diabetes is diagnosed by the presence of clinical signs as well as high glucose concentrations in the blood and urine. If your cat is anxious at veterinary visits (“stress hyperglycemia”), your veterinarian may also measure fructosamine, a marker of chronic DM that is not affected by stress like glucose is.

TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT

The main treatment of DM is insulin. Your veterinary team will teach you how to inject the insulin; with time and experience, both you and your cat will adapt to these injections very well.

Your veterinarian will monitor your cat’s response to treatment by performing blood glucose curves and measuring fructosamine periodically.

Your veterinarian may also recommend a veterinary diet restricted in carbohydrates, which has been shown to improve control of blood glucose levels. If your cat is overweight, your veterinarian may first institute a weight loss program; managed weight loss in overweight diabetic cats will likely help the cat maintain steadier glucose levels.

PROGNOSIS

While there is no cure for feline DM, this disease can be managed fairly well when you work with your veterinary healthcare team. Cats with well-controlled diabetes can live many years of high-quality life.

Importance of Early Diagnosis and Management of Feline Diabetes

AN OVERVIEW OF DIABETES

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can affect cats, dogs, other animals and humans. Diabetes is a complex disease that is caused by an inability of the body to regulate blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is the major source of energy for the body’s cells to function. Glucose comes from foods and is carried to the cells through the bloodstream. Several hormones, including insulin, control glucose levels in the blood. In diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the body can’t respond normally to the insulin that is made (type 2 diabetes).

Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes in cats. The pancreas still makes insulin but the body doesn’t respond to it normally. Glucose is less able to enter the cells and do its job of supplying energy. This raises the blood sugar level, so the pancreas works hard to make even more insulin. Eventually, this strain can make the pancreas unable to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes. However, although diabetes can’t be cured, it can be managed very successfully. That’s why it’s important to notice and address the signs of diabetes in your cat early. With treatment and proper management, a healthier and longer life is possible.

RISK FACTORS OF DIABETES IN CATS

Here’s an overview of risk factors:

Age
Diabetes is more common amongst middle-aged and older cats. Average diagnosis age: 10. Peak incidence: 9 to 13 years.

Weight
Diabetes is more common in overweight and obese cats.

Dry Food Diet
New research suggests that a dry food diet in cats with appropriate body weight is a significant risk factor.

Sex
Male cats tend to be more prone to diabetes.

Neutering
Neutering needs to be mentioned as a risk factor in male cats, BUT the benefits of neutering FAR outweigh the risks.

Physical Inactivity
Moderately active and inactive cats are at increased risk of developing diabetes.

Breed
It has been reported that Burmese cats are at higher risk of developing diabetes.

Certain Medications
Steroids can be VERY effective but UNNECESSARY corticosteroid treatment can increase the risk of diabetes.

EARLY DETECTION OF DIABETES IS IMPORTANT

Wellness and well-being can be promoted with early diagnosis and treatment.

Steps for approaching diabetes in cats:

1. Detect the disease early
2. Understand the disease
3. Provide appropriate, customized care
4. Continue to monitor and manage the disease

DAMAGE CAUSED BY DIABETES IF NOT TREATED AND MANAGED

Untreated diabetes in cats can lead to:

• Malnutrition
• Increasingly weak legs due to nerve damage in the hind limbs (results in a plantigrade stance)
• Diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA): a deadly medical emergency
• Death

DIAGNOSIS

Don’t wait for the severe signs and symptoms of diabetes to surface. The sooner diabetes is diagnosed and treatment begun, the better chance your cat has of a normal life. Contact your veterinarian, if you notice any of these early signs of diabetes in cats: excessive thirst, increased urination, weight loss and increased appetite.

Your veterinarian will perform a simple blood test to check glucose (sugar) levels. Other diagnostic tests, such as those to check levels of liver enzymes and electrolyte imbalances may also be recommended.

If diabetes is diagnosed, a treatment protocol, that may include injections together with diet and exercise recommendations, will provide your cat with a better chance of a good quality of life.

Diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or properly use insulin to break down glucose (a type of sugar) in foods. Glucose is the main source of energy needed by the body’s cells to sustain life.

Noticing early signs is the best way to catch diabetes before it can do major damage. The sooner diabetes is diagnosed and treatment begun, the better chance the pet has of a normal life. While there may not be a cure for diabetes in cats, it can be managed quite successfully.

SYMPTOMS OF CAT DIABETES

Symptoms of diabetes in cats include:

• Increased thirst
• Urinating more than usual
• Increased appetite
• Weight loss, even with increased food intake
• Weakness in the back of legs – a difference in stance

DIAGNOSING DIABETES IN CATS

If diabetes is suspected, your veterinarian will draw blood, collect urine and conduct these tests:

• Urinalysis test. Glucose in the urine indicates a failure of the kidneys to filter the glucose out of the blood, which suggests the cat is hyperglycemic and may have diabetes.
• High blood glucose (sugar) or hyperglycemia test. In the U.S., blood glucose is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The glucose concentration that may raise suspicion of diabetes is 200-300 mg/dL, depending on symptoms.
• Fructosamine test. This provides a long-term view of blood glucose over the previous one to three weeks. Fructosamine is measured in micromoles per liter (μmol/L). A fructosamine measurement above 400 μmol/L could suggest diabetes.

DIABETES TREATMENT GOALS

Once diabetes is confirmed, your veterinarian will provide a treatment protocol that may include insulin by injections. It is not a one-size-fits-all treatment – your veterinarian may periodically need to adjust your cat’s treatment regimen based on the results of monitoring. Dietary recommendations are an important part of treatment.

The goals of diabetes treatment include:

• Normalize appetite
• Reduce or eliminate signs of weight loss
• Restore normal blood glucose concentration
• Reduce or eliminate signs of increased thirst and urination
• Avoid causing inappropriately low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) through therapy

The objective is to eliminate signs of diabetes while avoiding associated complications.

COMPLICATIONS OF DIABETES

• Weakness
• Weight loss
• Low blood sugar
• Impaired coordination
• Poor hair coat (not grooming)
• Plantigrade stance caused by nerve damage
• Recurring ketosis (body doesn’t have enough glucose for energy)
• Poor glycemic control caused by simultaneous infection, inflammation, hormonal disorders or neoplasia

TREATING & MANAGING DIABETES IN CATS

Dietary Management

• Possibly a diet restricted in carbohydrates
• Weight loss program for overweight cats
• Diet that combats weight loss associated with diabetes, if applicable
• Multiple meals per day or unrestricted access to food, if weight loss is problematic

Insulin Therapy

• Initial insulin therapy
• Frequent evaluations
• Insulin therapy adjustments
• Continued adjustments until an effective treatment protocol is determined

PREVENTING DIABETES IN CATS

You can reduce your cat’s risk of developing diabetes by taking the following steps:

1. Watch your cat’s weight.
2. Encourage and provide means for physical and mental exercise.
3. Provide proper diet: some recommend a high-protein, low-carb, grain-free diet.
4. Never skip regular checkups and contact your veterinarian, if you’re concerned about any changes.
5. Take your cat for regular blood and urine screenings.

Cats with diabetes can live a high-quality life for many years, if the condition is properly controlled.

Feline Diabetes Overview and Symptoms

DIABETES OR DIABETES MELLITUS IN CATS

More cats, especially older cats, are developing diabetes or diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how the body uses glucose, the main type of sugar in the blood. Glucose is the major source of energy for the body’s cells to function. Glucose comes from foods and is carried to the cells through the bloodstream. Several hormones, including insulin, control glucose levels in the blood.

Although diabetes can’t be cured, it can be managed very successfully, especially if diagnosed early.

OVERVIEW OF DIABETES

Diabetes is an endocrine disorder. The endocrine system features glands that produce and discharge hormones which regulate many bodily functions.

Insulin is one of these hormones. Like the human body, a cat’s body needs insulin to properly regulate blood sugar levels and to respond correctly to normal insulin levels.

In diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the body can’t respond normally to the insulin that is made (type 2 diabetes).

Insulin works like a key that opens the doors to cells and lets the glucose in. Without insulin, glucose can’t get into the cells and so it stays in the bloodstream. As a result, the level of sugar in the blood remains higher than normal. High blood sugar levels are a problem because if left untreated can lead to weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, severe depression, problems with motor function, coma, and even death.

TYPES OF DIABETES IN CATS

There are two types of diabetes mellitus in cats:

Type 1: Very rare in cats (but more common in dogs). Essentially the pancreas loses its ability to make insulin leading to high glucose concentrations in the blood.

Type 2: This is the most common form of diabetes in cats. The pancreas still makes insulin but the body doesn’t respond to it normally. Glucose is less able to enter the cells and do its job of supplying energy. This raises the blood sugar level, so the pancreas works hard to make even more insulin. Eventually, this strain can make the pancreas unable to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal.

FAQS AND ANSWERS ABOUT DIABETES IN CATS

Is one sex more at risk?
Yes, male cats tend to be more prone to this condition.

Risk factors for diabetes in cats?
Age, obesity and physical inactivity.

Are certain breeds predisposed to it?
Yes, Burmese cats.

Is diabetes in cats common?
It’s less common than in dogs, but cases are increasing.

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES MELLITUS IN CATS 

• Weight loss (despite the usual diet)
• Increased thirst
• Increased appetite
• Increased urination

Other Possible Symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Poor coat
• Weakness
• Enlarged liver
• Bladder infections
• Collapse

Some or a combination of these symptoms can also be signs of other conditions and diseases.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs – even just one or two – contact your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian will conduct simple tests to check for diabetes, including testing for excessive glucose (sugar) in the blood and urine. Blood tests can also show other indications of diabetes, such as high liver enzymes and electrolyte imbalances.

If diabetes is diagnosed, a treatment protocol, that may include injections together with diet and exercise recommendations, will provide your cat with a better chance of a good quality of life.

Canine Diabetes Overview and Symptoms

DIABETES OR DIABETES MELLITUS  IN DOGS

More dogs, especially older dogs, are developing diabetes or diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how the body uses glucose, the main type of sugar in the blood. Glucose is the major source of energy for the body’s cells to function. Glucose comes from foods and is carried to the cells through the bloodstream. Several hormones, including insulin, control glucose levels in the blood.

Although diabetes can’t be cured, it can be managed very successfully, especially if diagnosed early.

WHAT IS DIABETES IN DOGS?

Diabetes is an endocrine disorder. The endocrine system features glands that produce and discharge hormones which regulate many bodily functions.

Insulin is one of these hormones. Like the human body, a dog’s body needs insulin to properly regulate blood sugar levels and to respond correctly to normal insulin levels.

In diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the body can’t respond normally to the insulin that is made (type 2 diabetes).

Insulin works like a key that opens the doors to cells and lets the glucose in. Without insulin, glucose can’t get into the cells and so it stays in the bloodstream. As a result, the level of sugar in the blood remains higher than normal. High blood sugar levels are a problem because if left untreated can lead to cataracts, increasing weakness in the legs (neuropathy), malnutrition, ketoacidosis (not enough insulin in the body to regulate levels of blood sugar), dehydration, and death. 

TYPES OF DIABETES IN DOGS

Type 1: The most common type of diabetes in dogs associated with a lack of insulin production.

Type 2: Inability to respond to insulin production and impaired insulin production. This type of diabetes is more common in cats.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT DIABETES IN DOGS

When do dogs develop diabetes?
Typically, between the ages of 4 and 14 years.

Is one sex more at risk?
Female dogs are twice as likely to develop diabetes.

Are certain breeds predisposed to it?
Possibly. It is more often seen in Miniature Schnauzers due to their risk of pancreatitis. Labrador Retrievers are also commonly affected due to their tendency to gain weight.

Is diabetes in dogs common?
Yes, diabetes mellitus type 1 is one of the most common endocrine diseases in dogs.

Are there any lifestyle/risk factors?
Yes, dogs that are overweight or obese are at higher risk of developing diabetes.

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES MELLITUS IN DOGS

Since diabetes in dogs is so common, it would be wise to familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Weight loss (despite having a good appetite)
• Excessive thirst
• Appetite changes
• Low energy levels
• Frequent urination
• Sweet-smelling breath
• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Dehydration despite increased water intake
• The formation of cataracts

If you’ve noticed any of these signs – even just one or two – contact your veterinarian immediately.

Your veterinarian will conduct simple tests to check for diabetes, including testing for excessive glucose (sugar) in the blood and urine. Blood tests can also show other indications of diabetes, such as high liver enzymes and electrolyte imbalances.

If diabetes is diagnosed, a treatment protocol, that may include injections together with diet and exercise recommendations, will provide your dog with a better chance of a good quality of life.

WHAT IS FELINE DIABETES OR DIABETES MELLITUS (DM)?

Feline diabetes occurs when a cat’s body doesn’t produce enough insulin or respond effectively to insulin, which is produced by and released by the pancreas.

As in the human body, the cells in a cat’s body need energy in the form of glucose (sugar) for their metabolism and other functions. Glucose in the blood needs insulin to ‘unlock’ the door to cells. Insulin attaches to cells and signals when the time is right to absorb glucose.

By absorbing glucose, cells in the liver, the muscles and fat deposits get energy for their functioning while glucose levels in the blood are regulated.

If your cat isn’t producing enough or any insulin, the cells in his body are unable to absorb glucose from the blood and they become starved of energy.

Type 1 Diabetes

In Type I diabetes, glucose concentrations are high because the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin.

Type II Diabetes

In the case of Type II diabetes, glucose levels are high because cells in the body are unable to effectively use available insulin, or when the pancreas is producing some insulin, but not enough for the body’s needs.

Most diabetic cats have Type II diabetes and many of them require insulin to adequately control their illness.

Key Facts about Diabetes in Cats

• If too much glucose builds up in the cat’s body due to the lack of insulin, the disease can become dangerous and make a diabetic cat very sick and if left untreated it may even cause death.
• Diet is a significant factor in causing and in treating diabetes.
• How insulin is given affects how quickly and how long it works.
• Some cats need insulin for a period, then recover and no longer need it.

WHICH CATS ARE MOST AT RISK FOR DIABETES?

Overweight cats are most likely to have a higher risk of developing diabetes. Obese cats more often than not receive high carbohydrate diets. 

Male cats are more likely to develop diabetes compared with females.

There are no cat breeds that are known to be genetically predisposed to develop diabetes. 

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETIC CATS

Depending on the stage of disease, clinical signs can include the following:

• Increased thirst
• Dehydration
• Urinating more than usual
• Increase or decrease in appetite
• Weight loss, even with increased food intake
• Unusual behavior
• Tiredness
• Vision loss
• Vomiting
• Weakness in the back of legs
• Muscle twitching
• Seizure or coma in advanced stages

 CAUSES OF FELINE DIABETES

The exact cause of feline diabetes is difficult to identify. However, diabetes seems to affect overweight cats, because obesity makes the cat’s body less responsive to the effects of insulin.

Older cats are also more susceptible to diabetes. Diseases like hyperthyroidism and chronic pancreatitis may also make cats more prone to develop diabetes.

HOW IS CAT DIABETES DIAGNOSED?

If a cat presents any suspicious clinical signs, such as increased drinking, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and recommend tests to check glucose concentrations in the blood and urine. 

These tests may include:

• CBC (complete blood count) and chemistry profile: These initial blood tests provide information about the cat’s organ systems. They may show dehydration, an elevated blood sugar level, or other changes that can occur with diabetes.
• Urinalysis: Evaluation of a urine sample may show the presence of sugar (glucose) in the urine if diabetes is present.
• Fructosamine test: Fructosamine is a protein in the blood that binds very securely to glucose. This provides a long-term view of blood glucose over the previous one to three weeks. In a cat with diabetes, the blood sugar levels are likely high for long periods of time.

GOAL OF TREATMENT IS CONTROL

Your veterinary team will develop a management plan to keep your cat’s glucose levels in a safe range without getting too low (hypoglycemic).

A commitment is required to manage diabetes in your cat. This effort is rewarding since your cat will be able to enjoy a high-quality of life as a controlled diabetic.

What is Diabetes or Diabetes Mellitus (DM)?

Dogs, as well as other mammals such as, cats, horses, monkeys and humans can be affected by diabetes – a chronic disease. As a disease that persists for a long time, diabetes can’t be cured but it can be successfully managed.

The most common type of diabetes seen in dogs is Diabetes Mellitus (DM) or “sugar diabetes”. It is a metabolism disorder. Metabolism describes all the chemical processes that go on continuously inside the body to keep it alive and the organs functioning normally, such as breathing, repairing cells and digesting food. These chemical processes require energy.

IMPORTANCE OF GLUCOSE AND INSULIN

Canine diabetes occurs when a dog’s body doesn’t produce enough insulin or respond effectively to insulin, which is produced by and released by the pancreas. As in the human body, the cells in a dog’s body need energy in the form of glucose (sugar) for their metabolism and other functions. Glucose in the blood needs insulin to “unlock” the door to cells. Insulin attaches to cells and signals when the time is right to absorb glucose.

By absorbing glucose, cells in the liver, the muscles and fat deposits get energy for their functioning while glucose levels in the blood are regulated.

If your dog isn’t producing enough or any insulin, the cells in his body are unable to absorb glucose from the blood and they become starved of energy and cannot function normally.

INSULIN-DEFICIENCY DIABETES

Insulin-deficiency diabetes occurs when the dog’s body isn’t producing enough insulin. The pancreas is either damaged or not functioning properly. Dogs with this type of diabetes require daily shots to replace the missing insulin. This is the most common type of diabetes in dogs.

INSULIN-RESISTANCE DIABETES

This is when the pancreas is producing some insulin, but the dog’s body isn’t utilizing the insulin as it should. The cells aren’t responding to the insulin’s “message,” so glucose isn’t being pulled out of the blood and into the cells. This type of diabetes can especially occur in older, obese dogs.

KEY FACTS ABOUT DIABETES IN DOGS

• If too much glucose builds up in the dog’s body due to the lack of insulin, the disease can become dangerous and make a diabetic dog very sick and if left untreated it may even cause death.
• Diet is a significant factor in causing and in treating diabetes.
• How insulin is given affects how quickly and how long it works.
• Female dogs can also develop temporary insulin resistance while in heat or when pregnant.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR DIABETES?

Risk factors include:

• Age – diabetes can occur at any age but it mostly occurs in middle-aged to senior dogs
• Chronic or repeated pancreatitis
• Obesity contributes to insulin resistance
• Other health conditions can trigger diabetes
• Genetics – studies show that genetics can play a role in either increased or reduced risk. Some breeds that may be at higher risk include miniature Poodles, Pugs, Miniature Schnauzers, Australian Terriers, Fox Terriers, Cairn Terriers, and Beagles.

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETIC DOGS

Depending on the stage of the disease, clinical signs can include the following:

• Increased thirst
• Urinating more than usual
• Increase or decrease in appetite
• Weight loss, even with increased food intake
• Unusual behavior
• Tiredness
• Vomiting
• Seizure or coma in advanced stages

CAUSES OF CANINE DIABETES

The exact cause of canine diabetes is difficult to identify. However, diabetes seems to affect overweight dogs, because obesity makes the dog’s body less responsive to the effects of insulin.

Older dogs are also more susceptible to diabetes.

HOW IS DOG DIABETES DIAGNOSED?

Your veterinarian can do simple tests to check for diabetes, including testing for excessive glucose (sugar) in the blood and urine. Blood tests can also show other indications of diabetes, such as high liver enzymes and electrolyte imbalances.

GOAL OF TREATMENT IS CONTROL

Your veterinary team will develop a management plan to keep your dog’s glucose levels in a safe range. The plan will probably include:

• Insulin medication and instructions on how to give the injections
• Exercise and diet recommendations
• A daily glucose-monitoring system
• List of any warning signs to watch out for

A commitment is required to manage diabetes in your dog. This effort is rewarding since your dog will be able to enjoy a high-quality of life as a controlled diabetic.

Early Diagnosis and Management of Diabetes in Dogs are Crucial

AN OVERVIEW OF DIABETES

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can affect dogs, cats, other animals and humans. Diabetes is a complex disease that is caused by an inability of the body to regulate blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is the major source of energy for the body’s cells to function. Glucose comes from foods and is carried to the cells through the bloodstream. Several hormones, including insulin, control glucose levels in the blood. In diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the body can’t respond normally to the insulin that is made (type 2 diabetes). As a result, the glucose cannot be used by the cells properly and your dog’s blood sugar levels will rise, which can lead to a number of adverse side effects.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes. However, although diabetes can’t be cured, it can be managed very successfully. That’s why it’s important to notice and address the signs of diabetes in dogs early. With treatment and proper management, a healthier and longer life is possible.

WHAT INCREASES THE RISK OF DIABETES IN DOGS?

Age
Middle-aged to senior dogs (5+) are at greater risk of developing diabetes.

Sex
Unspayed females are twice as likely to develop diabetes.

Steroid Medications
Long-term use can cause diabetes.

Cushing’s Disease
Diabetes can be a complication of this disease which is caused by high levels of cortisol (stress hormone) in the blood.

Genetics
Both mixed breed dogs and purebreds are at risk. High-risk breeds include beagles, pugs, miniature poodles and -schnauzers, dachshunds and certain terriers.

Chronic or Repeated Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can result in extensive pancreas damage which can lead to diabetes.

Obesity
Obesity is linked to acute pancreatitis and pancreatitis can lead to diabetes.

Other Health Conditions
An autoimmune disorder or viral disease could possibly be responsible for triggering diabetes in dogs.

EARLY DETECTION OF DIABETES IS IMPORTANT

The same rule applies to many health conditions and diseases in humans and in dogs: Early diagnosis and treatment can really promote wellness and well-being.

Here are the steps for dealing with diabetes in dogs:

1. Detect it early
2. Understand the condition
3. Provide proper customized care
4. Continue to manage it

DAMAGE CAUSED BY DIABETES IF NOT TREATED AND MANAGED

Untreated diabetes in dogs can lead to multi-organ damage as well as:

• Seizures
• Cataracts
• Blindness
• Amputations
• Kidney failure
• Diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA): a deadly medical emergency

DIAGNOSIS

Don’t wait for the severe signs and symptoms of diabetes to surface. The sooner diabetes is diagnosed and treatment begun, the better chance your dog has of a normal life. Contact your veterinarian, if you notice any of these early signs of diabetes in dogs: excessive thirst, increased urination, weight loss and increased appetite.

Your veterinarian will perform a simple blood test to check glucose (sugar) levels. Other diagnostic tests may be recommended to identify the underlying cause of your dog’s symptoms, such as tests to evaluate kidney, liver, and pancreatic function.

What is Canine Diabetes or Diabetes Mellitus?

In healthy dogs, insulin is secreted by the pancreas after a meal and moves blood sugar into cells, where it is converted to energy for the cells to function.

Diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or properly use insulin to break down glucose (a type of sugar) in foods. Glucose is the main source of energy needed by the body’s cells to sustain life. 

DAMAGE CAUSED BY DIABETES

When diabetes occurs, excessive glucose builds up in the dog’s bloodstream but the body’s cells that need that glucose can’t access it. As a result, vital functions are affected:

• Muscle cells and certain organ cells are starved of the glucose ‘fuel’ they need for energy. Because of this glucose deprivation, the body starts breaking down its own fats and proteins to use as alternative ‘fuel’.
• Many organs are damaged by the high glucose level that builds up in the bloodstream. Because of the lack of insulin to help convert the glucose in the bloodstream into fuel, there is a glucose accumulation in the blood. Unfortunately, this imbalance in blood chemistry acts like a sort of poison and eventually causes multi-organ damage. This often includes damage to the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, eyes or nerves.

PET DIABETES IS A TREATABLE, MANAGEABLE CONDITION

Diabetes in dogs can occur at any age. However, diabetic dogs are usually middle-aged or senior dogs. While diabetes in dogs may not be curable, it can be managed quite successfully.

It is very important to maintain the proper insulin and feeding schedules recommended for your pet. Maintaining a normal appetite while on insulin therapy is crucial 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. Here are other measures for the ongoing management of dogs diagnosed with diabetes:

• Daily insulin shots given by owners at home to replace insulin
• Regular, moderate exercise that suits the affected dog’s needs
• New diet: Typically, a low-fat diet high in proteins, fiber and complex carbohydrates
• Test and adjust medication/treatment: finding the correct dosage may take some time
• At-home monitoring of your pet’s daily blood and urine glucose levels
• Ongoing management of diet, exercise and medication
• Spaying female dogs diagnosed with diabetes
• Going for regular veterinarian checkups

PREVENTING DIABETES IN DOGS

The best prevention tools are similar to the management measures outlined above. As a dog owner, you can prevent or reduce your dog’s risk of developing diabetes by:

• Providing a healthy, well-balanced diet that can help your dog avoid diabetes.
• Ensuring that your dog gets enough exercise and controlling your dog’s weight. Obesity contributes to insulin resistance and can increase a dog’s chances of developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), a disease that leads to diabetes.
• Taking your dog for regular checkups is important. Dogs can’t tell you when they feel unwell or show you exactly where it hurts. That’s why subtle physical and behavioral changes should never be ignored. So, apart from routine checkups (typically once a year), have your dog checked out even if you’re just mildly concerned about something. Diabetes is more manageable if it is detected early and treatment protocol is established by your veterinarian.
• Spaying female dogs is recommended. Unspayed females are more likely to develop diabetes than male dogs. Spaying also helps prevent uterine infections and breast cancer.

Diabetic dogs can live long and healthy lives with proper management and veterinary care. If you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior or weight, consult your veterinarian.