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
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