PHP_Common diseases in dogs-Diabetes

It is important to understand that diabetes is considered a manageable disease, and many dogs with diabetes can live happy, healthy lives.

Diabetes can be divided into:

• Type I (lack of insulin production)
• Type II (impaired insulin production and inadequate response to hormones).

The most common disease in dogs is type I insulin-dependent diabetes, which occurs when the pancreas fails to produce or secrete adequate levels of insulin. Dogs with type I diabetes require insulin treatment to survive.

Diabetes symptoms in dogs

The following signs indicate that your dog may have diabetes:

• changes in appetite
• Excessive thirst/increased water intake
• lose weight
• increased urination
• Unusually sweet or fruity smell
• lethargy
• dehydration
• urinary tract infection
• Vomit
• Cataract formation, blindness
• chronic skin infection

causes of diabetes

The exact cause of diabetes is unknown. Autoimmune diseases, genetics, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, certain medications, and abnormal protein deposits in the pancreas may play important roles in the development of the disease.

Dogs more likely to develop diabetes

• It is thought that obese dogs and bitches may be at greater risk of developing diabetes later in life (6-9 years)
• Some breeds may also be at greater risk, including Australian Terriers, Standard Schnauzers, Miniature Schnauzers, Dachshunds, Poodles, Keeshonds and Samoyeds
• Juvenile diabetes is also common, especially in golden retrievers and coated retrievers

diagnosing diabetes

To properly diagnose diabetes, your veterinarian will gather information about clinical signs, perform a physical exam, and check blood tests and urinalysis.

Treat diabetes

• Every diabetic dog is an individual and responds differently to treatment . Diabetes treatment depends on the severity of the signs of the disease and the presence of any other health problems that may complicate treatment.
• Some dogs are severely ill when first diagnosed and require several days of intensive care in the hospital to regulate blood sugar levels.
• Dogs that are stable when first diagnosed may respond to oral medications or a high-fiber diet, which can help normalize glucose levels in the blood.
• In most dogs, insulin injections are necessary to adequately regulate blood sugar. Once your pet's individual insulin therapy is determined (usually based on weight), you'll learn how to give him insulin at home.
• It is recommended that your dog be neutered because female sex hormones can affect blood sugar levels.

As your veterinarian will explain, it is important to always give your dog insulin at the same time every day and to eat regularly along with the medication. This causes an increase in nutrients in the blood to coincide with a spike in insulin levels. This will reduce the chance of her blood sugar levels going too high or too low. You can work with your veterinarian to develop a feeding schedule based on your pet's medication schedule. It is also important to avoid feeding your diabetic dog foods that are high in glucose. Regular blood sugar checks are a key part of monitoring and treating anyone with diabetes, and your veterinarian will help you develop a schedule for checking your dog's blood sugar.

diabetes prevention

Although some forms of diabetes (the type found in dogs under one year old) are hereditary, a proper diet and regular exercise can go a long way toward avoiding the development of diabetes. Among other negative effects, obesity can lead to insulin resistance.

If you suspect your dog has diabetes

If your dog exhibits any of the unusual clinical signs listed above, make an appointment to see your veterinarian immediately. If a diabetic dog is not treated, it may develop secondary health problems such as cataracts and severe urinary tract problems. Eventually, untreated diabetes can lead to coma and death.