November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. During this time, many communities come together to bring attention to the disease. Not only do many humans live with diabetes, but a small percentage of our beloved dogs and cats will become diabetic in their lifetime. Included in this month’s blog is some information about diabetes in dogs and cats including diagnosing, treating and living with diabetes.
1. What is diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic medical condition that affects the way a dog or cat’s body regulates blood sugar (glucose). It occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin, or the insulin it produces is not effective in helping cells absorb glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps convert food (glucose) into energy. When a dog or cat’s body can't use or produce insulin properly, it leads to high levels of glucose in the blood, a condition known as hyperglycemia or diabetes mellitus.
2. What are the types of diabetes?
There are 2 types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes (Insulin-Dependent Diabetes)
- This is the most common form of diabetes in dogs. It occurs when the pancreas produces little or no insulin, which is essential for regulating blood sugar levels.
- Animals with Type 1 diabetes need regular insulin injections to control their blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
Type 2 Diabetes (Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes)
- This is most common form of diabetes in cats, but it can occur when the body's cells become resistant to insulin. The pancreas may still produce insulin, but the cells can't use it effectively.
- Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be managed with diet and insulin, there are also some new oral medications that can be appropriate for some patients.
- If treated early on, some patients with type 2 diabetes can go into remission and no longer need medications to maintain proper their blood sugar levels.
3. What are the symptoms of diabetes?
Common signs of diabetes in pets include:
-
Increased thirst (polydipsia): Animals with diabetes often drink more water than usual to compensate for dehydration caused by excess urination.
-
Frequent urination (polyuria): Excess glucose in the blood spills into the urine, drawing water with it and leading to increased urination.
-
Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite: Dogs and cats may lose weight because their bodies are unable to properly convert food into energy.
-
Lethargy or weakness: A lack of energy may result from the body’s inability to use glucose for fuel.
-
Cloudy eyes (cataracts): Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to cataracts, which cause the lenses of the eyes to become cloudy, resulting in vision problems.
4. What causes diabetes in dogs/cats?
Diabetes in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
-
Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to developing diabetes, including Miniature Schnauzers, Poodles, Dachshunds, Beagles, and Terriers.
-
Obesity: Overweight dogs are at higher risk because excess body fat can lead to insulin resistance.
-
Age: Diabetes is more common in older dogs, particularly those over the age of 7.
-
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can damage insulin-producing cells, leading to diabetes.
-
Hormonal disorders: Conditions like Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism can increase the risk of developing diabetes.
5. How is diabetes diagnosed?
To diagnose diabetes in dogs, your veterinarian will typically perform a combination of the following tests:
-
Blood tests: Elevated blood glucose levels are a strong indicator of diabetes.
-
Urine tests: Glucose and possibly ketones in the urine may indicate diabetes.
-
Fructosamine test: This test measures the average blood glucose level over the past 1-2 weeks and can confirm a diagnosis of diabetes.
6. How is diabetes treated and can it be cured in dogs and cats?
While diabetes in dogs cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment. Some cats who receive treatment early may go into remission from their diabetes. Cats who have gone into remission will often remain at high risk to develop the disease again but with proper steps by their owner, they can lower their chances. The main goals of treatment are to stabilize blood glucose levels and prevent complications.
Treatment typically includes:
- Insulin Injections: Most diabetic pets require daily insulin injections to regulate blood sugar. These injections are usually given subcutaneously (under the skin), and the dosage is adjusted based on the dog’s blood glucose levels.
- Note: Some cats may be good candidates for an oral medication rather than insulin injections
- Dietary Changes: Dogs and cats may benefit from a well controlled diet with lower carbohydrates, higher fiber and protein. Your veterinarian may recommend specially formulated diabetic dog food to help regulate blood sugar levels. Some owners may also need to adjust the amount and timing of meals to match the insulin schedule.
- Exercise: Regular, moderate exercise can help manage blood sugar levels, as it allows the body to use glucose more effectively. However, sudden changes in exercise intensity can affect insulin requirements, so it’s important to maintain a consistent routine.
- Regular Monitoring: Upon initial diagnosis and the start of insulin therapy, a pets blood sugar levels need to be monitored regularly, either through at-home testing or with the vet. This ensures that the insulin dosage remains appropriate and helps prevent episodes of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
7. Can diabetes be prevented?
Although not a fully preventable disease, obesity, having a sedentary life style and having recurrent pancreatitis can put a pet at higher risk for diabetes. Therefore, maintaining an optimal weight, keeping an appropriate level of exercise and a balanced diet for your pet are the best steps to preventing disease like diabetes.
8. Can be dog or cat live a normal life with diabetes?
With proper treatment and regular monitoring, dogs and cats with diabetes can lead a normal, happy life. However, it is important for owners to stay vigilant about their pet’s condition and adjust treatments as directed by their veterinarian. Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening condition), blindness, kidney problems, or nerve damage.
The Drake Center for Veterinary Care is an AAHA-accredited animal hospital located in Encinitas, CA. The Drake Center loves being a source of information for all pet owners across the country however if you have any questions regarding pet care and do not live in Encinitas, CA or surrounding cities, we encourage you to contact your local veterinarian.
If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (760) 452-3190, or you can email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.