Diabetes in dogs is a significant health concern that can impact your pet's quality of life. Understanding this condition, its symptoms, and how to manage it is crucial for any dog owner.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of canine diabetes, offering insights into prevention, treatment, and daily management to ensure your furry friend leads a happy and healthy life.
What is Diabetes in Dogs?
Diabetes mellitus in dogs usually occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin.
Insulin is essential for regulating blood glucose levels, allowing the body to use sugar as energy. Without adequate insulin, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to hyperglycaemia.
This condition is prevalent in dogs and, if left untreated, can result in serious health complications.
Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs
The early signs of diabetes in dogs include increased thirst and frequent urination. You might also notice your dog losing weight despite maintaining a normal or increased appetite. Lethargy and a general decrease in activity levels can also be indicative of diabetes.
As the condition progresses, more severe symptoms may manifest. These include the development of cataracts, which can lead to blindness, recurrent infections, and the potentially life-threatening condition of ketoacidosis, characterised by vomiting, dehydration, collapse and a sweet-smelling breath.
Types of Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs
Diabetes mellitus is a condition affecting the body's ability to control blood sugar levels. In non-diabetic animals, insulin is released in response to increased blood glucose levels (e.g. when the animal has eaten) and this causes the body to store the glucose.
Dogs primarily suffer from Type 1 diabetes, which means they are unable to produce insulin and thus require lifelong insulin therapy, similarly to people diagnosed with diabetes in young childhood. Type 2 diabetes, where the body produces insufficient insulin or does not respond to it properly, is extremely rare in dogs but common in adult humans and cats.
Both these types of diabetes are completely different to diabetes insipidus, which has nothing to do with blood glucose control
Risk Factors
Obesity is a risk factor since excess weight can make it hard for the body to use insulin properly, and can also predispose to pancreatitis (see below). A diet high in carbohydrates and a lack of exercise can increase the risk.
Another risk factor for dogs is the use of long term, moderate to high dosage use of steroids, including long acting steroid injections.
Senior dogs and certain breeds, such as Mini Schnauzer, Poodle and Labrador are more susceptible to diabetes. Unspayed female dogs are also at increased risk.
Pancreatitis- dogs with a previous history of pancreatitis are at increased risk of diabetes.
Diagnosing Diabetes in Dogs
Diagnosing diabetes involves a combination of blood tests and urine tests to check for high glucose levels. Your vet may also recommend a fructosamine test to evaluate average blood glucose levels over the past few weeks.
Your Vet may also want to screen for diseases such as Cushings disease, which produces high natural steroid levels in the body, and can lead to diabetes.
Treatment Options
Treatment primarily involves insulin therapy, which requires daily injections. Your vet will guide you on the correct dosage and administration technique. Alongside insulin therapy, dietary management plays a critical role in controlling blood glucose levels.
A high-fibre, low-fat diet is often ideal, however sudden changes to diet should be avoided, and feeding a diet parable to your dog is the most important factor.
Special diabetic dog foods are available to help manage the condition. Weight management through diet and regular exercise can also improve insulin sensitivity and overall health. Always discuss any diet changes with your vet.
Regular exercise is also crucial, though it should be moderate and consistent to avoid sudden drops in blood sugar levels - known as hypoglycaemia.
Daily Care and Monitoring
Daily management of a diabetic dog involves routine blood glucose monitoring, which can be undertaken by your Vet.
Avoid treats and snacks that can cause spikes in glucose. It's best to feed your dog at the same times each day to maintain consistent blood sugar levels.
Keeping a detailed log of your dog's glucose levels, insulin doses, and any symptoms can help your vet make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Monitoring water intake is also useful to detect any changes.
Routine vet check-ups are essential for monitoring your dog's condition and adjusting the treatment plan as needed. During these visits, your vet will perform comprehensive exams and tests to check for any developing complications.
Complications and Emergencies
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Diabetic ketoacidosis happens when blood glucose levels are high for a prolonged length of time (days to weeks). This is usually due to insufficient control with medication.
Signs include lethargy, vomiting, and dehydration. Immediate veterinary care is critical as this condition can be fatal without prompt treatment.
Hypoglycaemia
Low blood sugar can cause weakness, tremors, and seizures. Your dog may stagger and appear ‘drunk’.
This most commonly occurs if an overdose of insulin has been accidentally given, or your dog has not eaten sufficient to increase their glucose levels.
Providing a quick source of glucose, like honey or corn syrup, and seeking immediate vet care can save your dog’s life.
Cataracts
Diabetic cataracts, where the eye becomes cloudy, impairing sight, are unfortunately quite a common occurrence in diabetic dogs, even if well controlled. In some cases cataracts can be removed by surgery, but in many cases this is not essential and dogs can learn to live with reduced eyesight
Living with a Diabetic Dog
Managing a diabetic dog requires a significant emotional and financial commitment. The cost of insulin, syringes, special diets, and regular vet visits can add up. Additionally, the daily care and monitoring can be time-consuming. However, many owners find the effort worthwhile as their pets can lead happy, healthy lives with proper management.
Hearing from other dog owners who have successfully managed their pets' diabetes can be encouraging. Many dogs with diabetes live long, fulfilling lives with the right care. Sharing experiences and tips within a supportive community can provide valuable insights and motivation.
Diabetes in dogs, while challenging, is a manageable condition with the right knowledge and resources. Regular monitoring, a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and routine vet check-ups are key to maintaining your dog's health. Stay vigilant and proactive in your care to ensure your diabetic dog enjoys a happy and active life.
If your dog's quality of life is suffering, contact our team via 0333 041 8200, or request an appointment.
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