Diabetes in Dogs: Diabetes is a chronic disease which affects not only humans but also animals. In dogs, diabetes occurs as young as 18 months of age. 70 percent of the dogs affected by diabetes are female.
Diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes is one of the most common types seen in dogs. It is actually a metabolism disorder which refers to how the body converts food to energy.
It does not matter which type of diabetes occurs. The negative effects on the body will remain the same. In diabetes, excessive sugar is generated in the bloodstream of the dog. Yet the cells of the body that need the sugar cannot access it.
This article will guide you about diabetes in dogs, diagnosis, and treatments. So if your pet is suffering from diabetes and you want to know more about it the read the article till the end.
Symptoms Of Diabetes In Dogs
The pet owners may notice these early signs of diabetes in their pet:
- Excessive thirst: Your pet may drink frequently and empty the water bowl more often.
- Increased urination: The dog may ask you to go outside more often and may start having accidents in the house.
- Weight loss: Despite eating normal quantity, your dog can lose weight. This is because the dog is not efficiently getting nutrients from its food.
- Increased appetite: Your pet can be very hungry all the time. This is because the body’s cells are not getting the glucose they need.
Some of the advanced signs of diabetes may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Lack of energy
- Depressed attitude
- Vomiting
Effects Of Diabetes On Health
Devastating effects on the body of the dog can occur if diabetes is not controlled. Therefore, early diagnosis and proper treatment are necessary. Moreover, the effects of diabetes on health may include:
- Enlarged liver
- Cataracts, leading to blindness
- Urinary tract infections
- Seizures
- Kidney failure
- Ketoacidosis
Ketoacidosis is a life-threatening condition. It can accompany rapid breathing, lethargy, dehydration, and sweet-smelling breath.
Pet owners should take care of their pets and if your Dog is in pain then read What Can I Give My Dog For Pain?.
Diagnosis Of Diabetes In Dogs
In order to check for diabetes, your veterinarian can do the simple tests. The tests may include checking excessive glucose in urine and blood. These blood tests can also indicate other symptoms.
Such as electrolyte imbalances and high liver enzymes. The sooner diabetes is diagnosed and treated, the better chance for your dog to live a normal life.
Treatment Of Diabetes In Dogs
The treatment of diabetes in dogs comprises:
Diet
Your veterinarian will recommend the best diet for your dog. Usually, it includes good quality protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. They will help to decrease the absorption of glucose. The diet may also contain low-fat content.
Exercise
Diabetic dogs should maintain a moderate and consistent exercise routine. This is because it will help avoid sudden up and down in sugar level.
Injection
Most diabetic dogs will need insulin under the skin on a regular basis. It may sound hard to do for pet owners. However, it is something a pet owner must learn to do. It can become a quick and easy daily routine. Also, it is not traumatic at all for either dog or owner.
Managing Your Dog’s Diabetes
The veterinarian will provide a diabetes management plan for your dog. It will probably include information about:
- Insulin medication for your dog and how to give the injections.
- Diet and exercise recommendations.
- A regular glucose-monitoring system that will work best for your pet.
- Warning signs to watch out for.
If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, don’t panic. Just get good veterinary support. With that, you will be able to provide the right care for your pet. It will ensure a healthy lifestyle for you and your pet.
You can also visit petdoctorsanimalclinic and can consult with the best doctors.
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