Signs of Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetes mellitus, is as common in dogs as it is in human beings. Although diabetes is common in older or middle-aged dogs, nowadays, younger dogs are also found to suffer from it. It should also be noted that all dog breeds are susceptible to canine diabetes.

Diabetes in Dogs
Type 1 diabetes is caused due to insufficient production of insulin in the body of the dog, whereas type 2 diabetes is caused due to lack of response of the body to insulin. As the pancreas do not secrete insulin, glucose is not absorbed in the cells. This results in increased amount of sugar in the blood and urine. For the same reason, frequent urination and frequent thirst is observed when animals or humans suffer from diabetes.

Causes
As mentioned above, diabetes is a condition that is caused due to improper functioning of the pancreas. Hence, there is no specific cause for it. However, certain factors can contribute in increasing the risk of canine diabetes. For e.g., dog obesity and canine pancreatitis can cause diabetes. Similarly, it can also be hereditary up to some extent. On the other hand, hormonal changes can also be a reason, and hence, middle-aged female dogs are at a risk of getting diabetes. It is very essential to identify the early signs of diabetes in dogs in order to prevent other complications and death.

Symptoms
We know that frequent urination and excessive thirst are the classic symptoms of diabetes in humans as well as dogs. Apart from these, the other signs and symptoms include:

• Weight loss / weight gain


• Lethargy


• Vomiting


• Weakness


• Dehydration


• Thinning hair


• Lack of activity

Sometimes, if the symptoms remain unnoticed, life-threatening conditions like blindness or kidney problems can develop. On the other hand, ketoacidosis can also develop if diabetes is not controlled. Clouding of the eyes and cataract are also symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

Treatment
If the above mentioned symptoms are seen, you should immediately take your pet dog to the vet. A complete physical examination of the dog along with blood and urine tests will help in diagnosing the condition. Presence of excess glucose in blood and urine confirms diabetes. You should remember that diabetes is treatable, if immediate steps are taken to diagnose and treat the disease.

Treatment of diabetes depends upon the severity of the condition. In more severe cases, hospitalization may be required. If the dog is excessively dehydrated, IV may be used. On the other hand, if the disease is diagnosed early, mild diabetes can be controlled by following certain steps. A change in diet and daily insulin injections help in bringing canine diabetes under control. The vet will advice you about diabetic dog food and also about the number of insulin injections (1 or 2) required by the dog everyday. Once canine diabetes is diagnosed, proper and regular monitoring of the dog’s health and diet should be carried out by the owners.

Owners should remember to keep a check on the dog’s health and look out for signs of diabetes (specially if the dog is middle-aged). Although diabetes cannot be completely cured, it can be regulated and the dog can lead a long and happy life!