There are many questions most dog lovers have about canine diabetes. Most people don’t really understand what it is, how a dog gets it, how it’s treated and so on. So below is a list of dog diabetes questions and answers you will find very useful.
What Is Canine Diabetes?
Canine diabetes is a lifelong condition caused by an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin. Diabetic dogs can not metabolize sugar properly. Insulin deficiency results in glycosuria (high urine sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
If left untreated, this condition can lead to dehydration, blindness, malnutrition, neuropathy, and death. A diabetic pet may want to eat constantly, but will appear malnourished because his body cells can not absorb glucose. Canine diabetes is a treatable condition, and many diabetic dogs can lead happy lives.
Are All Dogs Susceptible to Diabetes?
This disease affects over 70 percent of dogs over seven years old. Diabetes is more common in females and neutered males. Siberian huskies, fox terriers, schnauzers, miniature pinschers, poodles, Australian terriers, cairn terriers, collies, and English setters may be at higher risk.
Pedigree analysis has identified a genetic predisposition in Samoyeds and Keeshonds. This condition affects one in 500 dogs. Unspayed females are twice as likely as male dogs to develop diabetes.
What Are the Main Types of Canine Diabetes?
Just like humans, dogs can develop two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes or juvenile-onset diabetes is a congenital disease caused due to insufficient production of insulin. This condition may occur in young dogs and puppies.
Type 2 diabetes is an acquired disease that affects senior dogs between seven and nine years of age. This form of diabetes is often linked to diet and obesity. Dogs can also develop diabetes insipidus or water diabetes. This form of the disease is caused by problems in the kidneys and brain.
Who Is at Risk?
The primary cause of dog diabetes is not known, but experts suggest that genetics may play a role. Hormonal changes may affect the insulin production and trigger this condition.
Obese dogs present a higher risk of diabetes than pets with a normal weight. A diet rich in fats and sugar increases the risk of canine diabetes. This condition may also result from other heath problems like canine pancreatitis and dog Cushing’s disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs?
Diabetic dogs usually experience the following symptoms:
• Frequent urination
• Increased appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Excessive thirst
• High glucose levels
• Cloudy eyes
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Cataracts
• Urinary tract infections
• Chronic skin infections
• Fruity breath
• Exercise intolerance
What Other Diseases Are Similar to Diabetes?
Despite having an increased appetite, diabetic dogs tend to lose weight. They drink and urinate a lot. These symptoms are also associated with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism).
The veterinarian will check your dog’s blood glucose levels to determine whether your furry friend has diabetes or another disease.
How long Can a Diabetic Dog Live?
With a balanced diet and proper treatment, a diabetic dog should have the same life span as a healthy dog.
Are There Any Complications That May Occur?
Diabetic dogs are more likely to develop infections, liver insufficiency, chronic inflammation, renal insufficiency, cardiac insufficiency, pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia, cancer, and severe obesity.
They also present a higher risk of diabetic nephropathy, urinary tract infections, liver disease, hypothyroidism, and insulin resistance. These health problems are a result of prolonged high blood glucose. Most dogs with diabetes develop cataracts. Control of high blood sugar levels should help prevent the onset of diabetic cataracts.
How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?
Diagnosing canine diabetes is relatively easy as compared to other health problems. The vet will perform physical and medical tests to diagnose this condition. Normal blood glucose levels for dogs are 70 to 150 mg/dl. Blood sugar concentrations above this range are a clear sign of diabetes.
What Is the Treatment for Canine Diabetes?
Dog diabetes treatment is similar to the treatment given for diabetes in humans. The vet will provide a list of foods that should be avoided. Treatment usually consists of exogenous insulin therapy and lifestyle management changes.
Appropriate therapy in the early stages can avoid development of permanent diabetes mellitus. Diabetic dogs are usually recommended a combination of diet and insulin therapy.
Will My Dog Need Insulin?
Most dogs with diabetes need regular insulin injections to control glucose levels. Insulin shots give your pet the ability to utilize glucose effectively and maintain normal sugar levels.
How Much and How Often Should I Give My Dog Insulin?
The veterinarian will give you clear instructions on how to inject your dog and how much insulin to use. He will tell you what time the insulin should be given, and recommend the best feeding pattern for your pet.
What Is Blood Sugar Gold?
Blood Sugar Gold is a high potency herbal supplement that regulates blood glucose levels and supports liver function. This natural remedy is made with certified organic herbs that lower bad cholesterol levels and help maintain eye health.
Along with a balanced diet and appropriate treatment, Blood Sugar Gold can improve your dog’s quality of life and alleviate diabetes symptoms. It reduces stress on the liver, maintains the blood sugar level and promotes overall health.
