Diabetes in Dogs and Cats
Our pets are like us in many ways, including developing diseases like diabetes. Diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportions in humans and is also seeing a rise in cats and dogs. More than 37 million Americans have type 2 diabetes but in dogs and cats, it is about 1 in 300.
Diabetes mellitus is a disease of the pancreas, a small but vital organ. When your pet cannot use sugar (glucose) effectively to control the sugar in the blood, diabetes mellitus occurs. In diabetics, regardless of the source of the sugar or the amount of sugar in the blood, there is not enough glucose transported into the body’s cells. As a result, there is not enough energy for the cells to function normally, and, the tissues become starved for energy. This state of metabolic “starvation” causes the body to breakdown fat and muscle tissue, which is then converted by the liver to sugar. (This breakdown of body tissues results in the weight loss often seen in diabetic patients). The pancreas has two types of cells. One group of cells produces enzymes for proper digestion. The other group, called beta cells, produce the hormone insulin
Insulin is responsible for pushing glucose (sugar) into the body’s cells for energy. Without insulin, glucose is unable to enter the cells and the body is forced to use fat and muscle for energy instead. Glucose builds up in the bloodstream, resulting in hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Only red blood cells and brain tissue do not require insulin to utilize the sugar in the bloodstream. Chronic long-term hyperglycemia results in dysfunction and failure of various organs, including the heart and blood vessels, nerves, kidneys and eyes. Most veterinarians recommend diabetes screening for all dogs and cats as a preventative measure during your annual visit.
Diabetes in our beloved pets is most always manageable through diet, exercise, and medication. With dedication and consistency by you and the right food and advice from your veterinarian, your dog/cat can have a healthy, happy life.
The cause of diabetes in animals can be any and/or all of the following:
Damage to the pancreas
Age - 8 years or older in dogs, all ages in cats
Gender - mainly females in dogs and obese male cats
Breed - Some breeds are more predisposed to diabetes than others, such as miniature poodles, schnauzers, dachshunds, beagles, pugs, retrievers, and keeshonds, to name a few
Body condition - being overweight or obese is a critical risk factor
Other factors such as poor nutrition, hormonal imbalance, or stress, may cause diabetes. Symptoms may include increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss and increased appetite. A diagnosis can be confirmed through blood tests and urine samples.
Depending on the onset and severity of diabetes, your veterinarian may start with dietary changes only. This can produce remission, but may not be sustained long term. Dietary therapy consists of losing weight, if your pet is overweight, a diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Exercise and activity in your pet will help in maintaining proper weight and bodily functions.
If the addition of insulin is necessary, which in most cases it is, your veterinarian will help you find the correct dosage. This process may take a while but once determined, it will then become very manageable. It is very important that the insulin is given at approximately the same time each and every day. Giving shots is not always a pleasurable experience. Have your veterinarian show you a process. We highly recommend using methods that reduce stress and fear. We are more than happy to assist in developing ways to make the entire process much more enjoyable for everyone involved. Here’s a guide we really like.
Dogs and cats with diabetes usually require lifelong treatment with special diets, a good fitness regimen and, particularly in dogs, daily insulin injections. The key to managing diabetic pets is to keep your pet’s blood sugar near normal levels and avoid too-high or too-low levels that can be life-threatening. A treatment that works for one pet might not work as well for another pet, and patience is important as you and your pet adjust to the new diet and medications.
Management of your diabetic pet may include some or all of the following:
Dogs
A high-fiber diet is often recommended.
Daily exercise is strongly recommended. Consult your veterinarian about an appropriate exercise program for your pet, considering factors such as weight, overall health and age.
Owners should consider spaying female dogs diagnosed with diabetes.
Cats
A high-protein, low carbohydrate diet is often recommended.
Daily exercise is strongly recommended, although it can be challenging to practice a daily fitness regimen with cats. Your veterinarian may be able to help you develop a plan.
It is very important to maintain the proper insulin and feeding schedules recommended for your pet. It is also very important that your pet maintains a normal appetite while on insulin therapy, or you risk hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if your pet is not eating and absorbing enough sugars to balance the insulin’s effect of removing the sugars from the bloodstream. You will also need to regularly check your pet’s blood and urine sugar levels. Regular examinations and testing performed by your veterinarian may be supplemented by at-home monitoring of your pet’s blood and urine glucose levels at home.
As with any routine, getting used to it will take a little time. Once you and your pet are comfortable, both of you should find it relatively quick, painless and fairly simple. At FBPC we are dedicated to helping you and your pet with medicinal application. We will work closely with you to adhere completely to your pet’s veterinarian’s instructions.
