Type I diabetes is always insulin dependent (IDDM).  This type of diabetes is characterized by decreased insulin production in the pancreas. The beta cells which produce insulin are destroyed and normal insulin production is lost. This type is most common in dogs.
Type II diabetes can be either IDDM or NIDDM and is a result of decreased responsiveness of the body’s cells to insulin, or improperly functioning pancreatic cells that produce insufficient levels of insulin. Type II diabetes is most common in cats.
In cats one can see Transient Diabetes Mellitus in which insulin requirement comes and goes. Approximately 20 percent of diabetic cats may experience periods where they no longer require insulin injections. Sometimes called a “honeymoonâ€, these periods can last for days or months.
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Change in appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- General weakness
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Cataracts (in dogs)
- Weak rear legs (in cats)
Diabetes occurs most commonly in middle age to older dogs and cats, but occasionally occurs in young animals. Younger animals diagnosed with diabetes are often affected by a genetic predisposition. Diabetes mellitus occurs more commonly in female dogs and in male cats.
Risk factors for diabetes include:
- Obesity
- Unhealthy diet – high carbohydrate content
- Steroid treatments
- Diestrus in unspayed female dogs – (the period of sexual inactivity after the female is receptive).
The actual cause of diabetes in each animal may not be known. For some animals it is genetic. Diabetes is sometimes linked to an infectious viral disease or autoimmune disease.
Treatment:
In determining the best treatment plan for your companion it is always best to work with your own team of veterinarians – consisting of your regular veterinarian along with a holistically trained veterinarian. Diabetes is a complicated disease and is different in every animal. Regular testing is essential in determining what works best for your companion. The following are the possible components of a holistically oriented treatment plan. These will often be combined with some level of insulin support.
Diet is one of the most important components of a treatment plan for a diabetic animal. A diet low in fat is typically recommended, but a diet too low in fat creates health risks of its own.
Cats: Of utmost importance for Type II diabetes is weight control. SLOWLY reducing your cat’s weight to an appropriate level is the very best thing you can do for her. For cats, a diet high in very good quality protein and low in carbohydrates is typically recommended.
Dogs: For dogs with Type I diabetes, a diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates is recommended to slow digestion and the release of sugar into the blood stream. Canned, dehydrated or freeze dried food are good options for diabetic animals.
Canned foods should be high protein with little or no grain. For dogs, fiber can be added to the diet. Complex carbohydrates are acceptable for dogs. Freeze dried food and treats are also good choices for most diabetic animals.
It is important to feed at least 2 times and preferably even 3 times per day to reduce meal size and spread out the food intake as this will assist in keeping blood sugar levels more stable.
Dietary Supplements:
Supplements to support the animal’s immune system are also important since many diabetic animals have a weakened immune system.
- Vitamin E has been shown to reduce the need for insulin in humans, so a vitamin E supplement is a good idea if not using an antioxidant that contains it.
Essential Fatty Acids, specifically Omega 3 fatty acids and GLA have been shown to both enhance glucose metabolism and protect against secondary cardiovascular problems in diabetics. While the diet should be lower in dietary fat overall, the supplementation of Essential Fatty Acids can often be beneficial. Essential fatty acids are also useful in preventing diabetes.
Classical Homeopathy is often very helpful in treating diabetes, particularly in cats with transient diabetes. Treatment is very specific to each individual and must be guided by a veterinarian trained in homeopathy. You can locate one through the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy.
Acupuncture can also be an excellent supportive treatment for diabetic animals. You can find a local practitioner through the American Academy of Veterinary Acupuncture.
Diabetes is a disease that must be managed for the life of your companion, but it does not necessarily need to reduce the quality of life if managed properly. Many animals with diabetes live long, happy lives when their guardians are willing to put the time and effort into developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
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