Did you know that around one percent of our furry companions may develop diabetes at some stage in their lives? While diabetes is less common in pets than in humans, it is not uncommon. This article provides essential information about diabetes in pets from a local Greeley, CO veterinarian.

What Is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes is fundamentally similar in both humans and animals. This condition occurs when a pet’s body cannot effectively process glucose, which is essential for providing energy to the body. Insulin plays a crucial role here. Insulin regulates the process that converts glucose into energy. In other words, insulin manages the internal mechanism that transforms Fido’s beloved dog treat into that adorable puppy energy and joyful antics. When that process goes wrong, it causes chaos in your pet’s body.

There are two types of diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes, which is characterized by insulin deficiency, the body fails to produce insulin. This is frequently caused by damage to or issues with the pancreas. If your furry pal develops this kind of diabetes, he will require daily insulin injections. This is the most common type for our dog friends. In Type 2 diabetes, characterized by insulin resistance, the body struggles to effectively metabolize insulin. In certain situations, the pancreas generates some insulin, but it is insufficient or the dog’s cells might struggle to metabolize it effectively. This is often observed in dogs that are overweight or in their senior years. It’s also the more prevalent type for cats.

Consult your Greeley, CO veterinarian for additional details.

What Are The Health Risks Associated With Diabetes?

Diabetes can lead to various secondary health issues, some of which may pose serious risks to life. These may include cataracts, liver problems, kidney issues, and seizures. Ketoacidosis is another condition that poses significant dangers. When the body is genuinely deprived of fuel—no matter the amount of glucose present in the blood—it begins to break down fat and protein. This can truly disrupt the body, leading to a series of negative outcomes. As the condition advances, it can lead to swelling of the brain cells, organ failure, and diminished muscle function. Ketoacidosis can be life-threatening if not treated, so it’s important to take this matter seriously.

Consult your veterinarian for more detailed information.

What Are The Risk Factors For Diabetes In Pets?

Pets can be diagnosed with diabetes at any stage of their lives. However, there are certainly some clear risk factors. Breed is one. Diabetes can impact any pet, though certain breeds are more predisposed to developing the condition than others. Many miniature dog breeds are at the highest risk. The list features Dachshund, Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, Bichon Frise, Miniature Schnauzer, Labrador Retriever, Pomeranian, Keeshond, and Samoyed. The Tonkinese, Norwegian Forest, and Burmese cats are particularly at high risk when it comes to our feline friends.

Certainly, since obesity poses a significant risk, any pet that is highly susceptible to obesity is also at risk.

Here are other risk factors:

• Pregnancy
• Pancreatic illness
• Hypothyroidism
• Kidney disease
• Oral health issues
• Urinary tract infections
• Infections of the skin
• Utilization of steroids

Amyloidosis would also raise the risks for cats. Hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and Cushing’s disease are all risk factors for dogs.

What Are The Signs Of Diabetes In Pets?

Monitor your furry companion closely and watch for any signs that something might be wrong. Taking action early can make a huge difference!

Here are a few red flags to watch for:

• Intense Thirst
• Higher Urine Production
• Unexplained weight loss
• Heightened Appetite (With or Without Weight Loss)
• Lack of energy
• Vulnerability
• Overcast Gaze
• Uncommon Walking Pattern
• Unhealthy Coat Quality
• Skin Infections
• Urinary tract infections

If you observe any of these signs, please reach out to your vet immediately. It’s important to remember that several of these symptoms may point to various health issues, not solely diabetes.

How Do You Take Care Of A Diabetic Pet?

After Fido and Fluffy receive a diabetes diagnosis, they will probably require ongoing treatment for the remainder of their lives. There’s no reason to worry. Caring for a diabetic pet often resembles the care required for any other pet in many respects. In certain situations, the condition can be reversed, although there are no guarantees, of course.

Your veterinarian will discuss specific treatment options after carefully assessing your pet’s condition. That may include insulin injections, medicine, diet, and/or glucose monitoring.

Observing for Symptoms

It’s essential to keep a close watch on your furry companion. Stay especially vigilant for indications of hypoglycemia and/or diabetic ketoacidosis. Some of these signs include weakness or lethargy, tremors, seizures, uncoordinated movements or unusual walking, sweet-smelling breath, increased quietness, reluctance to eat or drink, vomiting, diarrhea, troubled or rapid breathing, cataracts, high blood pressure, and urinary tract infections. If you observe any of these problems, please reach out to your vet immediately.

Veterinary Care

Pets that have diabetes might require more frequent visits, particularly if they are dealing with additional health concerns. Stick to the appointment schedule your Greeley, CO vet recommends.

Get in Touch with Our Greeley, CO Animal Clinic

Are you searching for an excellent Greeley, CO veterinarian nearby? Are you considering bringing your dog or cat in for a checkup? Get in touch with us at your local animal clinic today!