Diabetes Mellitus

Our guide has been authored by qualified veterinarians, but should not be taken as substitute for medical advice or professional veterinary consultation. If your pet displays any unusual symptoms, we strongly advise seeking guidance from a veterinarian

Understanding Diabetes Mellitus in dogs

Diabetes in dogs is a chronic disease that affects the way their bodies regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. It occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin produced. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy, and without enough insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream and causes high blood sugar levels.

There are two main types of diabetes in dogs: type 1 diabetes, which occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, and type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body doesn’t respond properly to insulin. Type 1 diabetes almost exclusively affects dogs in dogs and typically requires lifelong insulin therapy.

Jack's story

Jack, an adorable Golden Retriever, was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of six. Jack's owner, Kathy, noticed that he was drinking excessive amounts of water and losing weight despite having a good appetite. After taking Jack to the vet, he was diagnosed with diabetes and prescribed insulin injections. Kathy was nervous about giving Jack the injections, but the vet showed her how to do it properly and she soon became comfortable with the process. Kathy also had to make changes to Jack's diet and exercise routine to manage his diabetes. She started feeding him a low-carbohydrate diet and taking him for regular walks to help regulate his blood sugar levels.

Diabetes Mellitus's Causes: Uncovering Triggers

The exact causes of diabetes in dogs are not entirely understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:

Genetics: Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to developing diabetes, including Poodles, Beagles, Dachshunds, and Schnauzers.
Obesity: Overweight or obese dogs have an increased risk of developing diabetes. Excess body fat can cause insulin resistance, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Age: As dogs age, their risk of developing diabetes increases. Senior dogs are more susceptible to developing diabetes than younger dogs.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can damage the insulin-producing cells, leading to diabetes.
Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase the risk of developing diabetes in dogs.
Other health conditions: Dogs with certain health conditions, such as Cushing’s disease or thyroid disorders, are more likely to develop diabetes.

It’s important to note that while these factors can increase the likelihood of diabetes, not all dogs with these risk factors will develop the disease.

Recognizing Diabetes Mellitus: Signs and Symptoms

Increased thirst and urination
Unexplained weight loss
Increased appetite
Vomiting and diarrhea
Cloudy eyes: Dogs with diabetes may develop cataracts, which can cause cloudiness in the eyes.
Infections: Dogs with diabetes may be more prone to infections, such as urinary tract infections or skin infections.

Diabetes Mellitus Diagnosis: How it's Identified

The first step in diagnosing diabetes in dogs is to look for clinical signs such as increased thirst and urination, weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite, and lethargy. The vet will then perform a physical examination to look for any signs of diabetes, such as cataracts in the eyes, which can be a sign of chronic high blood sugar levels. Blood Glucose Test is an important diagnostic test to measure the glucose level in the blood. A high glucose level in the blood is an indication of diabetes. A urinalysis may also be performed to check for the presence of glucose in the urine, which is another indication of diabetes. The fructosamine test measures the level of glycated proteins in the blood, which can provide information about the dog’s blood glucose levels over the previous two to three weeks and can confirm a diagnosis of diabetes. The veterinarian will also perform a differential diagnosis to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to diabetes, such as kidney disease, liver disease, or Cushing’s disease.

Treating Diabetes Mellitus: Options and Approaches

Insulin therapy – to help regulate blood sugar levels.
A balanced diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in fiber.
Daily routine exercise.
Regular monitoring of your dog’s blood sugar levels.

Diabetes Mellitus: Surprising Facts

Approximately 1 in 300 dogs will develop diabetes in their lifetime.

The incidence of diabetes in dogs has increased by 32% since 2006.

Diabetes is more common in middle-aged and senior dogs, with the average age of onset being around 7 years old.

Vet's Tip: Dealing with Diabetes Mellitus

Maintain a consistent and regulated feeding schedule. This means feeding your dog the same amount of food at the same time each day and sticking to a prescribed diet that is appropriate for dogs with diabetes. In addition, it’s important to monitor your dog’s blood glucose levels regularly and adjust their insulin dosage as needed, under the guidance of your vet. Regular exercise can also help manage blood glucose levels and improve your dog’s overall health.