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What is Canine Diabetes?
A Manageable Disease!
Canine Diabetes Mellitus presents as one of two types: Type 1, caused by the insufficient production of insulin, and Type 2, related to the body's cells inability to handle insulin efficiently.
Secondary Diabetes can be caused by drugs or diseases that either impair the natural secretion of insulin, or its effects on tissues.
What are the symptoms of Canine Diabetes?
| Sudden blindness from cataracts | Loss of appetite |
| Excessive thirst and urination | Weakness |
| Loss of Weight | Poor skin and coat condition |
| Vomiting | Dehydration |
How is Canine Diabetes Diagnosed?
A diagnosis of DM is made based on clinical signs, physical exam, and lab tests. Findings typically include persistent hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar) and glycosuria (glucose in the urine). Often, ketones are present in the urine or blood.
Normal blood glucose values range from about 80-120 mg/dL. Diabetic animals can have blood glucose values that are moderately elevated, or extremely elevated (600+ mg/dL).
How is Canine Diabetes Treated?
| Diet and Weight Control | A diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates is recommended for obese diabetic cats, not only for the purpose of weight reduction, but to help control blood glucose levels. Your veterinarian can recommend the best form of diet for your cat, taking into consideration any other physical problems. Feeding several small meals a day instead of just one or two big ones will also help in regulating blood levels. |
| Insulin by injection | Ideally, your veterinarian will conduct an 18-24 hour blood glucose profile to determine the amount and frequency of insulin injections. This test is done in hospital, and consists of injections of insulin followed by close monitoring of the blood glucose values |
| Oral Medications | A diabetic canine in otherwise good health may be treated successfully using an oral hypoglycemic medication. |
| Careful monitoring of Glucose and Insulin levels | An overdose of insulin can create hypoglycemia, a potentially fatal condition. Symptoms are lethargy, weakness, followed by a lack of coordination, convulsions, and coma. This condition can be counteracted by giving the cat its normal food if it is able to eat, or a bit of Karo syrup rubbed on the gums, followed, of course, by a trip to the veterinarian. Some owners monitor their cat's blood glucose level, using a "human" monitoring kit, which can help avoid the stress of regular trips to the vet. (Of course, you should clear this with your own vet before proceeding.) |
| Nutrient and Botanical Supplements | Vanadium shows promise as an adjunct to regulate blood insulin, and antioxidants help to relieve oxidative stress on tissues. However, natural supplements may have negative side effects, and should be used only under supervision of a veterinarian familiar with their uses. |
Credit: http://cats.about.com/cs/healthissues/p/diabetes.htm
All info is from internet sources and is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. C.A.R.E. is not a veterinary facility. Consult a licensed veterinarian if your pet exhibits any unusual symptoms or behavior.