Canine Diabetes is a disorder that affects a dog’s body to produce and regulate insulin. It occurs when their pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when cells don’t respond correctly to the insulin produced. The insulin resistance can lead to an increase in the amount of glucose, or sugar, in your dog’s blood.
Signs of diabetes are an increased thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite, weight loss, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of Canine Diabetes
Symptoms of Diabetes can vary from dog to dog but there are some common signs that can indicate diabetes. They include:
- Increased urination
- Excessive drinking
- Weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
Your canine can also have frequent infections due to a weakened immune system or vision problems caused by cataracts. If you think that your dog has diabetes it’s important to take them to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing Canine Diabetes
The only way to definitively diagnose diabetes is with a glucose curve test, which measures the amount of glucose in your dog’s blood over a period of time. This will allow your veterinarian to determine if your dog has diabetes and what type. Your vet might also recommend other tests such as a urine test or an oral glucose tolerance test.
Stages of Canine Diabetes
Diabetes is split into four stages.
Stage 1
The first stage is called pre-diabetes, which means that your canine’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.
Stage 2
The second stage is called overt diabetes, which means that your dog has been diagnosed with diabetes and needs treatment.
Stage 3
The third stage is called poor control, where the disease progresses and can cause complications such as ketoacidosis.
Stage 4
The fourth stage is called diabetic remission, which means that your canine’s blood glucose levels are within a normal range and they don’t need treatment for diabetes.
Treating Canine Diabetes
Treating Diabetes can include both diet and medication. The main goal of treatment is to keep your dog’s blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible. Your vet might also recommend regular exercise and insulin injections if needed. Ultimately, the best treatment plan will depend on your canine’s individual needs.
Preventing Canine Diabetes
Diabetes is a serious condition, but it can be prevented with some simple lifestyle changes. Feeding your dog a balanced diet and making sure they get regular exercise are two of the most important steps you can take to prevent diabetes. It’s also important to monitor your dog’s weight and body condition, because obesity can increase their risk of developing diabetes.
Canine diabetes is a serious disorder that can have serious consequences if left untreated. If you think that your dog has diabetes, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. With proper care and management, most dogs with diabetes can lead happy and healthy lives.