Diabetes in dogs is a complex and chronic disease where they have either a lack of the hormone insulin or an inadequate response to it.
Although there is no cure for it, pets with diabetes can be managed successfully.
The cause of diabetes isn’t known. We do know that autoimmune disease, genetics, weight, pancreatitis, and some medications (like steroids) play a role in the development of the disease.
Often this disease is caught by blood work on your pet’s yearly well visit. Diabetes is usually a silent disease because many pets don’t show obvious symptoms early on. Look for the following indications:
- Greater than normal thirst
- Increased hunger
- Weight loss
- Lack of energy, weakness, or fatigue
- Thinning or dull fur
- Vomiting
- Depression
- Frequent urination (maybe even accidents in the house)
- Cloudy eyes
Obviously, if your buddy is showing these symptoms, it’s time for a vet visit. Don’t put it off; it’s best to catch this problem sooner rather than later.
Your vet will prescribe a treatment for your dog which almost always requires insulin injections twice a day and glucose monitoring, combined with dietary changes and exercise. Management of a newly diagnosed dog can be daunting at first, but both owners and dogs quickly adjust to this new routine. Along with the insulin, another critical factor in management is daily exercise (call us we can help).
So if your best friend is diagnosed with diabetes, don’t panic. With proper care, you’ll have many more happy, active years together!
