Diabetes in Dogs may sound overrated, but it’s true. Diabetes in Dogs is becoming a common worldwide trend.
Did You Know One Out of every 300 dogs is diagnosed with Diabetes?
It is Mostly common in Middle-aged and Senior Dogs.
The most frightening thing about Dog Diabetes is that once Your Dog gets it, he will most likely need Insulin for the rest of his life.
Several things can cause Diabetes in Dogs. But the Good News is, that there are a lot of things that You can Easily do to Prevent and Minimize it.
We can do anything for our dogs out of love for them. However, only spending time with our dogs, cuddling with them, giving them massage is not the only way to show love. We have to be aware of their medical conditions at all times so that they never feel any discomfort. For many first-time dog parents, recognizing symptoms of certain diseases becomes difficult.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes in Dogs is a Complex Disease where the body’s ability to produce or respond to the insulin (hormone) is impaired resulting in Hyperglycemia or Elevated levels of sugar in the Blood.
If Diabetes is not controlled or Managed, it can cause many complicated health problems in our Furry Friends.
Don’t Panic! Don’t Worry! It is easily manageable, which means, your doggo can live a healthy and happy life.
Types of Diabetes
There are two types of Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2
Type 2 Diabetes is caused due to Obesity, Lack of exercise, and eating too many carbs. Most Human Beings have Type 2 Diabetes. Cats mostly get Type 2 Diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes is caused because the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin. It is also known as Insulin-dependent Diabetes.
What Type of Diabetes Do Most Dogs Get?
Most (90%) of Diabetic Dogs have Type 1 Diabetes. If your Doggo has Type 1 Diabetes he will require Insulin Therapy to Survive. That is why Preventing Diabetes in Dogs is Very important.
What Are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs?
Watch out for these Symptoms in Your Doggo and if you find any of these, you must visit your local vet for a checkup as soon as possible.
1. Increased Urination
Diabetic dogs Drink a lot of water and pee a lot. Frequent Urination is a Strong sign of Diabetes, especially if he is Middle-aged or Senior.
2. Excessive Thirst
What’s the Matter Fido? You are always Thirsty! Diabetic dogs suffer from excessive thirst.
Excessive thirst and increased urination are classic diabetes symptoms.
The kidneys have to work overtime to get rid of excess blood glucose sugar causing Frequent urination and hence excessive thirst.
2. Change in the Appetite
Is your Doggo always seems to be Hungry? Diabetic dogs will be extra hungry because their cells are unable to get energy from Glucose.
3. Weight Loss
Is Your Doggos losing weight despite getting a proper diet? Get him checked ASAP as it can be a warning sign of Diabetes.
Diabetic dogs lose weight abnormally because their cells are unable to utilize Glucose and hence start burning tissues for energy.
4. Lethargy, Weakness or Fatigue
Your doggo loves to play but somehow he has stopped playing and get tired easily. You might think that he is simply becoming lazy but this can be a warning sign of Diabetes.
5. Vomiting
This is commonly seen in Diabetic Dogs with Pancreatitis
6. UTI Infection
High Urine glucose content attracts Bacterias which can cause UTI infections
These are the most common symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs which are easily visible to a Dog parent. If you see any of these symptoms in your baby, don’t delay, get him checked for Diabetes.
What Causes Diabetes in Dogs?
There can be several causes of Diabetes in dogs. The exact cause can be hard to find. However, these are some of the most common causes that can cause Diabetes in dogs:
1. Autoimmune Disease
2. Obesity
3. Genetics
4. Chronic Pancreatitis
5. Diet/Food
6. Vaccinations
Which Dog Breeds Are Prone to Diabetes?
Diabetes can occur to any Dog, however, certain breeds are found prone to Diabetes.
In a study conducted on Diabetes in Dogs, these breeds were found more susceptible to Diabetes as Compared to other breeds: Australian Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Fox Terriers, Bichon Frises, Golden Retrievers, Keeshonden, German Shepherds, Poodles, Pugs, Samoyeds, and Schnauzers.
This doesn’t mean that if your doggo is any of the above breeds he is destined to get diabetes, No! It only means that he is more susceptible, you just have to take extra care and you can prevent it altogether.
How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?
Unfortunately, you cannot diagnose diabetes at home. You have to take your doggo to a vet. He will do the Blood test and urinalysis to Confirm the disease.
How is Diabetes Treated?
The treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the Type of Diabetes.
Dogs with type 1 diabetes have no option but insulin injections and may need changes in their regular diet, and may need to lose weight (if they are obese).
Dogs with type 2 diabetes (Rare, 10%) do not need insulin and can easily be controlled with diet, weight loss, and oral medication (Your vet will recommend the proper dose based on weight and age of your doggo)
Type 1 Diabetes needs more care and attention.
How to Treat Your Diabetic Dog at Home
If your dog has been diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, you will need to pay extra attention to your furry friend.
Maintain a Schedule for his Insulin and Food. You need to stick to that schedule. You must give insulin shots at the same time every day and feed him proper meals to avoid low sugar.
High-sugar Treats are Strict NO for your Diabetic Dogs.
A daily exercise program is very important for a Diabetic Dog’s Health. Consult your vet and Indulge him in moderate activities and exercise. If your dog is obese, it is crucial to keep his weight under control.
Last but not least: Regular Blood sugar check. Set up a schedule with your vet for a Regular Blood Sugar Checkup.
How to Prevent Diabetes in Dogs?
If it’s hereditary, there is very little that you can do to prevent it. However, if it’s not inherited, proper diet and regular exercise can easily prevent the onset of Diabetes in the Older Dogs.
Follow these Tips to Prevent Diabetes in Dogs:
1. Take your Doggo for a Regular Exercise so that he doesn’t get Obese.
2. Give him a proper diet. Do not feed your doggo everything that you eat. Avoid High-sugar Treats
3. Keep him Hydrated
4. Keep him Active, play with him
5. Give him a proper sleep
These simple things can easily help your Doggo live a healthy and happy life.
What Can I Do if I Suspect that My Dog has Diabetes?
If you see any of the above-mentioned symptoms, Don’t delay! Book an appointment with your vet right now!
What will happen if Diabetes is not Treated?
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to secondary health problems like Cataract, Severe UTI, impaired Nerve functions. Ultimately, it may cause Coma and even Death.
