Diabetes in dogs is a metabolic disorder that can affect humans and other species. The problem with metabolic diseases like this is that they act silently and are closely related to lifestyle and eating habits.
What happens when our dog suffers from diabetes? We, the owners, are the ones who take care of our pet’s feeding, playtime, and rest time. In short, we are entirely responsible for the life of our pets.
Therefore, we must learn everything we need to know about diabetes in dogs to provide them with a healthy lifestyle. This is the only way to ensure that our beloved furry friends will stay with us for many years to come.
How to know if our dog suffers from diabetes?
Although our furry friends cannot talk, their behavior can often give us hints about what is going on in their bodies. More importantly, it will help us know how they feel!
If you see that your pet has two or more symptoms, you have a diabetic dog, or it is a few steps away from suffering from dog diabetes. Therefore, if you suspect that something is wrong with your pet, we recommend that you visit your veterinarian immediately to clear up any doubts.
- A pet’s appetite is more prominent than before and consumes more food than before (polyphagia). Your pet is not easily satiated.
- The dog urinates more than before, and the urine quantities are more significant (polyuria).
- Your dog drinks much more water than before, and its thirst is not easily quenched (polydipsia).
- Cataracts and permanent blindness because of prolonged high sugar levels.
- Your dog may also lose weight, as the cells are not using glucose efficiently.
- Some dogs with diabetes often have weakness in their limbs; therefore, they also suffer unusual pain.
Which dogs are more prone to diabetes?
- Poodle, Dachshund, Schnauze, Pinscher, and Westy dogs are more likely to suffer from diabetes.
- Unsterilized female dogs.
- Older dogs may suffer from the disease due to the poor functioning of specific organs such as the pancreas.
- Obese dogs.
Treatments for diabetic dogs:
Insulin injections:
It is one of the most common ways to control diabetes in dogs. When injected correctly, sugar levels drop considerably. Usually, the owner can administer the medication to the pet. However, this will not be enough.
Special diet:
Diet is a crucial factor in controlling diabetes in our pets. The most important thing is that our dog eats the same every day and in exact quantities.
There are foods for diabetic dogs on the market, low in fat and fiber. However, if you wish, you can also feed your pet with natural foods, always following the nutritional advice of your veterinarian.
Make your dog exercise:
Physical activity will help your dog to have a good quality of life. It also helps to avoid hyperglycemia.
Sterilization:
Several studies have shown that female dogs need sterilization to avoid hormonal problems that can lead to diabetes.
Diabetes in dogs is not a problem that involves significant difficulties for the owners. However, we are the only ones who can give a promising future and quality of life to our beloved pets.
Always stay informed and look for everything you need to know about diabetes in dogs so that you can be aware of the latest treatments. However, do not forget to consult a veterinarian.
