Diabetes in dogs: symptoms, causes and management

 Diabetes in dogs is a serious illness that can affect dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes. Although the cause of diabetes in dogs is not fully understood, we know that the disease can lead to some serious health problems.

Diabetic dogs often require special care and treatment, as well as close monitoring from their owners and veterinarians. With good management, however, many dogs with diabetes can live a long and happy life. In this article, we will explain to you what diabetes is in dogs, how to recognize it, and what its treatments are.

Diabetes in dogs: definition and general

Diabetes mellitus, more commonly known as diabetes, is an affection that affects the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. In dogs, diabetes is characterized by an abnormally high level of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

Diabetes can occur in any breed of dog, but it is most often observed in obese -age to older dogs. Although the exact cause of diabetes is unknown, it is believed that it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The prevalence of diabetes has continued to increase in dogs and cats, and it is estimated that 5 to 10 % of all dogs are affected.

There are two types of diabetes.

The first, called type I or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), is characterized by a total absence of insulin production through the pancreas. In this form of diabetes, pancreatic beta cells are destroyed.

In type II diabetes, less common, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), insulin is produced by the pancreas but does not work properly.

Symptoms of diabetes in dogs

Symptoms of diabetes are not the same for all dogs. Some will lose weight, while others will take it. Lethargy is often a sign of diabetes, as is the increase in thirst and urination.

A common sign of diabetes is that your dog will have a sweet smell in his breath, which will be noticeable even if he has not eaten sweet foods. Other symptoms include troubled eyes, a fruity smell in breath, and dark or extremely pale urine. If you do not know if your dog suffers from diabetes, it is important to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Additional signs include excessive hunger, fatigue, and vomiting. Surgical infections and trauma can cause transient hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Diabetes dogs may have additional symptoms, in particular: increased appetite; vomiting; diarrhea. In some cases, symptoms such as skin infections and cataracts should alert you to the presence of diabetes in your dog.

Diabetic dog: risk factors and genetic predispositions

Diabetes is a frequent disease in our pets. The causes of diabetes in dogs are multiple and often unknown. This is why we are talking about risk factors.

The most frequent risk factors are an unbalanced and poor-quality diet, obesity, advanced age, sterilization, certain drugs, and certain breeds.

Certain breeds of dogs are considered to have a genetic predisposition to diabetes. Here they are :

• The Beagle
• The Australian Terrier
• The poodle
• Keeshond
• The Cairn Terrier
• The dash
• The Dwarf Pinscher

Diabetes diagnosis in dogs

It is difficult to diagnose diabetes in dogs before having a result of the blood sugar test. The blood sugar test is a blood test that measures the blood glucose level. However, owners can detect the symptoms of diabetes in a dog, and note changes in appetite and the dog's weight.

If the blood sugar level is high, the veterinarian can prescribe medication to lower blood sugar and control the disease. If you detect the slightest symptom of diabetes in your dog, quickly make an appointment with the veterinarian. Because the more diabetes progresses, the higher the risk of complications.

Diabetes in dogs: possible complications

There are several possible complications of diabetes in dogs, including blindness, kidney failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, and neuropathy. Dogs with diabetes are also at increased risk of developing an infection, as excess glucose in their blood can promote the growth of bacteria.

Diabetes can also cause changes in the composition of blood, which can cause anemia.

Diabetes treatment in dogs

Diabetes is a chronic disease that can affect dogs of all ages, races, and sizes. Although it is possible to treat diabetes in dogs, there is no cure. The treatment aims to regulate glucose levels in the blood and prevent complications of the disease.

Diabetes in dogs is caused by insulin hormone insufficiency, which allows glucose to enter cells. Cells cannot use glucose without insulin.

When the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, glucose accumulates in the blood and cells do not receive the energy they need.

Diabetes in dogs can be treated with insulin, oral drugs, or a combination of the two. Insulin is generally administered by subcutaneous injection. Oral drugs can be used alone or in combination with insulin.

The treatment of diabetes in dogs aims to regulate glucose levels in the blood. The veterinarian can adjust the dosage of drugs according to glucose levels in the blood. Treatment should be continued throughout the dog's life.

Diabetes can cause many complications, including blindness, kidney failure, heart failure, and infections. The treatment of diabetes in dogs aims to prevent these complications.

Diabetes prevention

The prevention of diabetes in dogs is possible thanks to a few simple measurements. First, dogs should be fed with a healthy diet, low in sugar and fat.

Second, dogs should exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.

Third, dogs should be tested regularly for diabetes, especially if they are overweight or if they have a family history. By following these simple measures, dog owners can help prevent their fur friends from developing diabetes.