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Your Guide to Diabetes in Dogs

At PetVax Complete Care Centers, our vets are seeing increasing numbers of dogs with diabetes. Although the condition is serious, it can often be managed successfully. Today, we discuss signs that your dog may have diabetes and available treatment options.

Types of Diabetes in Dogs

As with people, there are two types of diabetes in dogs. Neither of these conditions can be cured, however both forms of this chronic illness can be managed effectively. 

Insulin-Deficient Diabetes

This form of diabetes occurs when the dog’s body isn’t producing enough insulin due to a damaged or poorly functioning pancreas. Insulin-deficient diabetes is the most common type of diabetes in dogs.

Insulin-Resistant Diabetes

This form of diabetes occurs when the pancreas is producing some insulin, but the dog’s body isn’t utilizing the insulin properly. Insulin-resistant diabetes is common in older, obese dogs.

How do dogs get diabetes?

The cause of diabetes in dogs is unknown however, there are a number of factors which appear to increase a dog's risk of developing the condition. Dogs most at risk of developing diabetes include:

  • Dogs being treated for other conditions with steroid medications
  • Dogs suffering from Cushing's disease or other autoimmune disorders.
  • Unspayed females
  • Overweight dogs

What signs of dog diabetes should I watch for?

Make an appointment to see your vet as soon as possible if your dog is displaying any of the following symptoms of diabetes. Early diagnosis is the key to successfully managing this disease in dogs. The early signs of diabetes in dogs include:

  • Frequent urination (polyuria)
  • Drinking more water than usual
  • Excessive appetite (polyphagia)
  • Unexplained weight loss

As the disease becomes more advanced symptoms may become more severe and include:

  • Visual impairment/blindness
  • Lack of energy
  • Joint stiffness/weakness
  • Dull coat
  • Vomiting

How can my dog's diabetes be treated?

If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes your vet will prescribe medications and ongoing treatments that will allow you to manage your pup's condition. Ongoing treatment for your dog's diabetes may include:

  • Daily insulin shots
  • Regular daily exercise to help avoid spikes or sudden drops in glucose levels
  • A special, vet-recommended diet
  • Close monitoring of your dog for changes in symptoms and overall health
  • Regular veterinary examinations

Left untreated,  diabetes can lead to serious and life-threatening side effects for your dog such as blindness, enlarged liver, urinary tract infections, seizures, kidney failure and ketoacidosis.

Early diagnosis and treatment are important for successful treatment outcomes. Regular wellness checks at your vet's office once or twice a year can help your vet spot the early signs of diabetes and begin treatment before your dog's condition becomes more severe.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Contact PetVax Complete Care Centers right away if your dog is showing signs of diabetes. Our Memphis vets have experience in the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes in dogs and cats.

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PetVax Complete Care Centers is accepting new patients! Our experienced vets are passionate about the health of Memphis companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.

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