Our vets in Lafayette have noticed more dogs getting diabetes. Although treatments exist, there's no cure. Today, we'll discuss the typical signs of diabetes in dogs and the treatment options.
Types of Diabetes in Dogs
As with people, there are two types of diabetes in dogs. Neither of these conditions can be cured. However, both forms of this chronic illness can be managed effectively.
Insulin-Deficient Diabetes
When a dog's pancreas doesn't work well and can't make enough insulin, it gets a common kind of diabetes called insulin-deficient diabetes.
Insulin-Resistant Diabetes
This form of diabetes occurs when the pancreas produces some insulin, but the dog's body isn't utilizing the insulin properly. Insulin-resistant diabetes is common in older, obese dogs.
Why Has My Dog Developed Diabetes?
The cause of diabetes in dogs is unknown. However, several factors increase your dog's risk of developing diabetes. Dogs most at risk of developing diabetes include:
- Dogs being treated for other conditions with steroid medications
- Dogs suffering from Cushing's disease or other autoimmune disorders.
- Unspayed females
- Overweight dogs
What Are The Symptoms Of Diabetes In Dogs?
Make an appointment to see your vet as soon as possible if your dog is displaying any of the following symptoms of diabetes. Early diagnosis is the key to successfully managing this disease in dogs. The early signs of diabetes in dogs include:
- Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Drinking more water than usual
- Excessive appetite (polyphagia)
- Unexplained weight loss
As the disease becomes more advanced, symptoms may become more severe and include:
- Visual impairment/blindness
- Lack of energy
- Joint stiffness/weakness
- Dull coat
- Vomiting
How Is Diabetes In Dogs Treated?
If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, your vet will prescribe medications and ongoing treatments that will allow you to manage your dog's condition. Ongoing treatment for diabetes in dogs typically involves:
- Daily insulin shots
- Regular daily exercise to help avoid spikes or sudden drops in glucose levels
- A special, vet-recommended diet
- Close monitoring of your dog for changes in symptoms and overall health
- Regular veterinary examinations
If diabetes in dogs isn't addressed, it can cause severe problems like blindness, liver issues, infections, seizures, kidney failure, and ketoacidosis. To ensure your dog's health, it's crucial to detect and treat diabetes early.
Regular check-ups with your vet, once or twice a year, can catch diabetes signs early, making treatment more effective.