Tag: diabetes

Diabetes in Dogs: Learn the Symptoms and How to Manage

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A yellow Labrador retriever lying down on a table while a veterinarian gently examines the dog with two hands.

Hearing that your dog has diabetes can be an overwhelming diagnosis for any pet parent. However, with the support of your veterinarian, diabetes is a manageable condition for many dogs, and understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options can often help dog owners provide the best possible care for their diabetic companions.

Can Dogs Get Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus (diabetes) is a serious and common disease that affects the way a dog’s body uses sugar, also known as glucose. Diabetes can affect dogs of any breed, age or size, although it is more common in middle-aged and older dogs. Female dogs, particularly unspayed females, are often diagnosed more frequently than males, and certain breeds, such as schnauzers, miniature poodles, dachshunds and beagles, are more at risk than others.

What Is Dog Diabetes?

Most dogs have insulin-dependent diabetes and insulin treatment is required. They are very similar to humans with type 1 diabetes in that the pancreas can no longer produce insulin. This means their blood sugar (glucose), which is a source of “fuel” or energy for the body’s cells, becomes elevated in the blood rather than being taken in by cells that need it. The glucose accumulation can, over time, cause serious health problems.

Without glucose, body cells experience an energy shortage, so the body breaks down muscle and stored fat to use for energy, resulting in weight loss. At the same time, excess glucose in the blood can damage important organs such as the kidneys, eyes, blood vessels and nerves. 

Untreated diabetes in dogs can turn into a life-threatening complication called diabetic ketoacidosis. This is a medical emergency, so watch for signs like weakness, vomiting, decreased appetite, sweet or fruity breath, abnormal breathing, dehydration or collapse. If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, you should take them to an emergency vet immediately. 

Overweight or obese dogs are at a greater risk of diabetes because excess body fat can interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. Additionally, some health conditions, such as pancreatitis, hormonal problems and long-term use of steroid medications, can increase the likelihood of developing diabetes. Dogs with diabetes are more prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs) because high blood sugar levels promote bacterial growth.

How Do Dogs Get Diabetes?

Diabetes in dogs develops when the body can no longer produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels properly. Usually, it occurs as a result of progressive loss or dysfunction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells, leading to a condition similar to type 1 diabetes in humans. Immune-mediated damage may contribute in some cases. Without enough insulin, glucose cannot move from the bloodstream into the body’s cells for energy. As a result, sugar builds up in the blood. 

Signs of Diabetes in Dogs

One of the first signs of diabetes in dogs is excessive thirst. Pet parents may notice their dog is drinking more water than normal and experiencing frequent urination. Increased hunger is another symptom due to not receiving enough energy from glucose. Even if your dog is eating more, many diabetic dogs lose weight because the body starts breaking down fat and muscle for fuel. 

Other clinical signs of diabetes include poor haircoat, cloudy eyes or cataracts, chronic infection and lethargy. If glucose dips too low, your dog may show signs of weakness, confusion, seizures and even loss of consciousness, requiring emergency veterinary care. When glucose is too high, pets often drink and urinate more than usual and potentially develop other complications such as diabetic neuropathy.

Dog Diabetes Treatment

If you suspect your dog has diabetes, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible to avoid complications caused by high blood sugar. It is best to catch any underlying illness as early as you can. Your vet will likely perform blood work and a urine test to measure the amount of glucose. Diagnosis is based on persistent high blood glucose in both the urine and blood.

Treatment for canine diabetes generally focuses on regulating blood sugar levels through insulin therapy. Most diabetic dogs require daily insulin injections because their bodies cannot produce enough insulin naturally. To arrive at “just the right” insulin dose that keeps your dog’s diabetes controlled, periodic blood glucose monitoring is usually required. Insulin injections will typically be given twice a day around the time of their feeding.

In the past, dogs would typically spend a day at the veterinary clinic for a blood glucose curve. During that time, the veterinary staff would take blood glucose samples every two hours for up to 12 hours. The trouble with in-clinic glucose testing is that dogs often become stressed in the unfamiliar environment, which can artificially raise blood glucose levels. That’s why the American Animal Hospital Association recommends at-home glucose testing, when possible. Pets are usually less stressed at home, which means results will be more accurate. At-home testing can save you money. It can also help identify a hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) event, so your pet gets treatment faster. Continuous glucose monitors are available that attach to your dog’s back and allow you to monitor your dog’s glucose levels via your smartphone. 

Your veterinarian will discuss your dog’s diet, exercise, insulin injections and schedule for vet visits. They will adjust the amount of insulin you give your dog based on follow-up blood tests. It can be an overwhelming time as a pet owner, but rest assured, your veterinarian will carefully train you on how to administer insulin or any other medicines necessary to get your dog on a healthier track. They will also share best-care practices, ensuring you head home feeling confident, prepared and fully equipped to support your dog.

Follow the veterinarian’s instructions carefully and continue to monitor your dog between their checkups. If your dog’s symptoms worsen or something seems out of the ordinary, don’t be afraid to call your veterinarian between routine visits. They’re there to help! 

Managing Diabetes in Dogs

Even with blood glucose data, you should still watch your dog for signs that their diabetes may not be well controlled. It helps to keep a daily diary that lists information such as food and water consumption, insulin dose administered and general amount/frequency of urination. If possible, weigh your dog periodically. What kind of food your dog eats is important to managing their diabetes. Many diabetic dogs do well on a diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates that includes high-quality protein. However, the diet should be individualized to the specific dog, and consistency is often more important than the exact diet type. Changes in weight, appetite, increased thirst, urination and even energy level should spark a call to your veterinarian.

Caring for a dog with diabetes can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding the condition is the first step toward helping your dog live a healthy and comfortable life. With proper treatment, monitoring and lifestyle adjustments, many diabetic dogs are able to continue enjoying relatively normal lives alongside their families.

How Cat Obesity Can Lead to Feline Diabetes

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A close-up of an overweight gray and white cat sitting on a kitchen floor.

If you’re wondering if your cat is overweight, that’s not so unusual — there are more overweight cats in the U.S. than cats of an optimal weight. The problem is that carrying a few extra pounds can have negative effects on your cat’s health, including high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, kidney disease, respiratory difficulties and even some types of cancer. But the health condition with the strongest link to obesity in cats is diabetes. 

Can Cats Get Diabetes?

Yes! Diabetes — or more appropriately, feline diabetes mellitus — occurs when a cat’s pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin or has lost the ability to produce insulin altogether. Diabetes mellitus can also occur when the body’s cells don’t respond normally to the insulin that the pancreas does make, a phenomenon called insulin resistance.

Insulin is a hormone that is necessary for cells to take in glucose (blood sugar) from the bloodstream. Not only does insulin resistance contribute to diabetes, it is also thought to play a role in other diseases, such as kidney disease, liver disease and cancer, as well as contributing to ongoing obesity.

Most diabetic cats develop type 2 diabetes, which is when their bodies are unable to properly use insulin, and may need an insulin injection once or twice a day for the rest of their life. Sometimes this type of diabetes can be reversed, meaning the cat can go into remission and insulin injections are no longer needed. Early diagnosis, treatment with insulin and a change in diet provides the greatest chance of reversing diabetes in a cat. However, if the cat hasn’t gone into diabetic remission within six to 10 months of diagnosis, they will likely need lifelong insulin treatment.

What Causes Diabetes in Cats?

Diabetes has been diagnosed in cats of all ages and breeds, and in both males and females, including neutered, spayed and intact cats. However, certain cats — especially obese cats — are at greater risk of developing the disease. Older cats, particularly neutered male cats, are also more likely to develop diabetes. 

Other risk factors in cats include inactivity, genetics, increasing age, infections, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), kidney disease, steroid medications and endocrine disorders.  High calorie foods are more likely to cause a cat to become overweight, especially if that cat is an inactive indoor kitty.

To help your cat avoid diabetes:

  • Maintain them at a healthy weight. If you’re not sure how much your cat should weigh, talk with your veterinarian.
  • Feed a complete and balanced diet. This includes limiting treats to no more than 10 percent of your cat’s daily calories.
  • Provide your cat with plenty of physical activity. Exercise helps keep them from becoming bored and can help manage their weight.

Signs of Diabetes in Cats

Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst and urination, and weight loss despite an increased appetite. These clinical signs can also be caused by other conditions in cats, such as hyperthyroidism and kidney disease. So if you notice these symptoms, make an appointment with your veterinarian to confirm a diagnosis, especially as uncontrolled diabetes can be fatal.  

Feline Diabetes Treatment Options

While a diagnosis of diabetes may initially feel overwhelming for cat owners, diabetes is a condition that you can manage with the help of your vet, especially in the early stages. Diabetes can’t be cured, but managing diabetes is possible with daily insulin injections and diet changes that can keep your cat’s blood glucose levels regulated and reduce or eliminate diabetes symptoms.

Diet Changes for Cats Diagnosed with Diabetes

Diet can play a big part in the management of diabetes and maintaining normal blood glucose levels. Cats have a unique ability to use protein to make a steady supply of glucose for energy. Many veterinarians consider a food containing high levels of good-quality protein and low levels of carbohydrates ideal for diabetic cats. Because cats are obligate carnivores, the high-protein diet more closely mirrors a diet they might eat in the wild.

If you switch your diabetic cat to a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, it’s important to do so under the guidance of a veterinarian. With this type of diet, your cat may need less insulin over time. However, not all cats respond best to the same diet. Other diets formulated for diabetic cats may include high fiber to aid in glucose metabolism. 

It’s important to always work with your veterinarian to ensure your cat is maintaining normal blood glucose concentrations and you aren’t putting your cat at risk for hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. Diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a medical emergency, can also be a risk if your cat doesn’t receive enough insulin. Diabetic cats should be fed the same amount of food at the same times every day to help maintain normal blood sugar levels. 

Remission doesn’t mean a cat with diabetes is cured. It’s still important that your cat maintains a healthy weight and body condition, eats appropriate food and stays active. And in some cases, your kitty may still need a once- or twice-daily insulin dose in the future.

How to Prevent Cat Obesity and Diabetes

Getting your cat down to a healthy weight helps prevent disease, enhances their quality of life and can actually help them live longer. Chubby cats can also have more trouble jumping, playing and climbing.

Ideally, your cat should lose weight gradually, trimming off about 3 to 5 percent of body weight per month. Slow weight loss is very important as cats are at risk for a dangerous liver condition called hepatic lipidosis if their calorie intake is restricted too quickly.

Research has shown that obesity, age and lack of activity are the main contributors to insulin resistance and diabetes in cats. So, if you want to reduce your furry friend’s risk of diabetes, feed them appropriate amounts so that they maintain an ideal (or optimal) body condition and make sure they get plenty of activity. Make a commitment to spend three 5-minute aerobic play sessions with your cat each day.

Diabetic Cats Can Live a Full Life

Although diabetes can’t be cured, it is possible to successfully manage your cat’s diabetes through daily insulin therapy, monitoring your cat’s blood sugar, feeding an appropriate diet and regular physical activity. With appropriate care and attention, there’s no reason why your diabetic cat can’t fully live out the rest of their natural lifespan.

Work With Your Vet to Choose an Over-the-Counter Food for Your Diabetic Pet

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Taste of the Wild

A diabetic pet can be expensive. There’s the cost of the insulin, the syringes and the frequent veterinary visits. So do you really need to pay for a prescription diet, on top of all that?

Not necessarily.

It depends on several factors, including whether your diabetic pet is a cat or a dog, their weight and any other health conditions.

Cats usually have type 2 diabetes, meaning their bodies may be unable to properly use insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Sometimes, this type of diabetes can be reversed, meaning the cat can go into remission and insulin injections are no longer needed. And diet can play a big part in that.

Dogs, on the other hand, tend to have type 1 diabetes, which is a deficiency in insulin. Diet may help manage the condition, but it usually can’t lead to diabetic remission.

Because there are many factors to consider, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian when choosing a food for your diabetic pet.

For Diabetic Cats, Protein’s Where It’s At

In studies, diabetic cats given insulin and a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet were more likely to go into remission than those fed a high-fiber, moderate-carbohydrate diet. Because cats are obligate carnivores, the high-protein diet more closely mirrors a diet they might eat in the wild.

Your veterinarian may also recommend a canned formula. Compared with dry diets, canned foods tend to be higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates.

If you switch your diabetic cat to a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, it’s important to do so under the guidance of a veterinarian. With this type of diet, your cat may need less insulin over time. Giving the same amount of insulin could put your cat at risk for hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. While cats in remission no longer require insulin, it is important to keep feeding the high-protein diet to reduce the likelihood of them becoming diabetic again. With this type of diet, your cat may need less insulin over time. However, it’s important to always work with your veterinarian to ensure you aren’t putting your cat at risk for hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.

For Diabetic Dogs, Fiber May Help

Unlike cats, diabetic dogs do not require a high-protein diet, but they may benefit from a diet that’s high in fiber. This type of diet can slow absorption of glucose from the intestines, so there are fewer spikes in blood glucose directly after a meal.

A diabetic dog that is well controlled on insulin and is a normal weight may be fine on complete and balanced over-the-counter foods that are appropriate for the dog’s age and health. Again, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to make sure a diabetic dog is receiving the nutrition they need.

Weight Is Another Issue

While weight loss in an overweight pet is usually a good thing, it can also be a sign of diabetes. If that’s the diagnosis, and the pet’s condition becomes controlled with insulin, the weight loss should slow down or stop. However, if the pet remains obese, your veterinarian may recommend a special (either OTC or prescription) diet. For animals who are diabetic, obesity can make their cells less sensitive to insulin. In these cases, a weight management diet that helps them gradually lose weight might be best. A high-fiber, low-fat and low-calorie diet may be beneficial for both dogs and cats. The high-protein diet mentioned above may also help cats drop the additional pounds.

Many pets that have diabetes for a long time before they are diagnosed may actually become too thin. In these cases, your veterinarian may recommend a high-fat, high-protein diet to help them back to a normal weight, or keep them on the same diet but in increased quantities.

Take Other Health Conditions Into Account

If your pet has other health conditions, such as kidney or digestive tract disease, your veterinarian may suggest additional adjustments to your pet’s diet. A cat with advanced kidney disease, for example, may benefit from a diet that is somewhat lower in protein and phosphorus than the high-protein foods typically suggested for cats with diabetes only.

The Bottom Line

Diabetes in a pet isn’t a death sentence, and it’s certainly not a death sentence for your wallet. While some cases require more complicated measures as far as diet goes, it very well may be possible to buy what your pet needs over the counter. Since every pet is unique, it pays to work with your veterinarian to land on the diet that works best for your pet.