Diabetes Awareness

Just like humans, pets are susceptible to Diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is a condition that develops when your pet cannot use sugar (glucose) effectively and control the sugar level in the blood. Insulin, which is made in pancreas, is essential for regulating the use and storage of blood glucose. Insufficient insulin production is potentially life threatening.

There are two types of diabetes, and although there is no cure, pets with either type can be successfully managed through nutrition, exercise and insulin medication. What causes diabetes? A reduction in insulin production is usually caused by damage to the pancreas. In some pets hormonal changes or medications can reduce the effect of insulin. Other factors that increase the chance of your pet developing diabetes include:

1. Body Condition: Overweight cats and dogs are more likely to develop diabetes. Severely obese cats are most at risk.
2. Age: Pets can develop diabetes at any age, but the peak onset is around 8 years.
3. Breed: Some breeds of dogs such as, Samoyeds, Miniature Schnauzers, Miniature Poodles and Bichon Frise are more predisposed to diabetes than others. In cats, Burmese are more at risk than other breeds.

The key to keeping a diabetic pet healthy is routine feeding, exercise and insulin medication at the same times each day. This helps maintain stable blood glucose levels.

Does my pets have diabetes? The signs of diabetes are difficult to recognize because they are similar to those of other disorders. If you notice any of the following, consult your veterinarian:

• Increased thirst
• Cataracts (in dogs)
• Urinates more often (noted in cats by 'clumping' in the litter box and the need to change litter more often)
• Weight loss
• Doesn't eat
• Tired, lack of energy
• Vomiting

Once diabetes is diagnosed, it is important that your pet is regularly monitored. Glucose levels are checked regularly and adjustments often occur frequently at the onset of treatment. Once your pet is diagnosed with diabetes, treatment occurs for the rest of your pet's life.