Diabetes in dogs
Diabetes mellitus, also known as diabetes, is a disorder that can affect both humans and animals. Diabetes in dogs occurs more often in middle-aged and older dogs, and is not an uncommon disease for four-legged friends. We explain in more detail what happens in dogs with diabetes, what symptoms to look for and how to treat it.
Table of contents
Causes of diabetes - what causes it?
In the same way as for us humans, the disease is divided into type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Diabetes in dogs is usually due to reduced insulin production, i.e. diabetes type 1. Insulin is the hormone that regulates glucose levels in the body and is produced by the pancreas. If not enough insulin is produced (type 1 diabetes) or if the body cannot use the insulin effectively (type 2 diabetes), the blood glucose level will increase.
There are various reasons why some dogs are more prone to developing diabetes than others. For example, genetic factors and age play a role. You can also see that diabetes has a somewhat more frequent occurrence in bitches than in male dogs. In addition, overweight and obesity, inflammation of the pancreas and certain medicines can also increase the risk.
Do you suspect that your dog is overweight? Read more about obesity in dogs here.
Symptoms of diabetes in dogs - how to detect it?
The symptoms of diabetes in dogs will vary, depending on how long the disease has been allowed to develop. The triggering cause of the disease will also affect which symptoms the dog experiences. To detect both diabetes and other diseases as early as possible, you should always try to keep an eye on your dog's behaviour. In this way, any deviations can be quickly identified, and the animal can be taken to the vet in time. Some general symptoms of diabetes in dogs are the following:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination: Dogs with diabetes will often drink more water than usual and have to urinate more often. For example, a dog that usually stays in the house and manages to stick to the walk, may start to urinate indoors.
- weight Reduction: Another symptom that the dog may have diabetes is that it loses weight despite eating normally.
- Fatigue, low mood and reduced general condition: Dogs with diabetes can become lethargic, less active and generally appear more depressed.
- Nausea and vomitingt: Some animals experience nausea and vomiting due to changes in blood sugar levels.
- Reduced fur quality This is a common symptom of illness, and can often mean that something is not quite right with the dog's health.
- Cataracts: Dogs or cats that develop diabetes can also develop them cataracts, and get poorer and more blurred vision.
Is your dog showing any of these symptoms? Then you should contact a vet and take it in for a consultation. You can easily book an appointment at our veterinary clinic in Larvik here. Untreated diabetes in dogs can lead to worsening symptoms and serious complications. For example, the dog can end up in ketoacidosis, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition.
Diagnosis and treatment of dogs with diabetes
When we bring in a dog that shows suspicion of diabetes, we take both blood and urine samples to confirm or deny the diagnosis. We will also check the liver enzymes, as these are often elevated in dogs with diabetes. After assessing the test results and making the correct diagnosis, a treatment plan is drawn up. For bitches, castration is often relevant, as the duration of the cycle can have a negative effect on the treatment.
What must you do as an owner?
When treating diabetes, you as the dog owner are responsible for a large proportion of the treatment. There is no definitive cure for diabetes in dogs, but the condition can be controlled with medication, dietary changes and exercise. The aim of the treatment is to reduce the symptom pressure and improve the quality of life in the long term.
Treatment of diabetes in dogs consists, among other things, of regular insulin injections, often twice a day. With us, you will receive an introduction and good guidance on how to give these injections at home. As a rule, most dogs will accept this.
In addition, proper feeding and exercise are an important part of the treatment. A fiber-rich diet is recommended, and you can choose feed that has been specially developed for dogs with diabetes. In our online store you can buy various types of diet food for dogs. Meals should also be served regularly and at fixed times, in smaller portions. Exercise and physical activity are another important element in treatment, both to maintain an ideal weight and to control blood sugar.
In conclusion
With good routines and the right treatment, most dogs with diabetes can live a normal life. It can be demanding at times, and it is important that you as a dog owner take the necessary responsibility. Be sure to take your four-legged friend to regular veterinary check-ups, and organize your everyday life so that it receives the treatment it needs.
Elisabeth is a veterinarian and authorized ophthalmologist with specialization in eye surgery, as well as further training in internal medicine, general surgery, oral surgery and ultrasound from the European School for Advanced Veterinary Studies in Toulouse.
