Diabetes in dogs is a common disease. It is a relatively complex condition that occurs due to a decrease in insulin production or an inadequate response to insulin. Based on this, there are two types of diabetes: insulin-dependent diabetes and insulin-resistant diabetes. Dogs can be affected by both types, but type 2 diabetes is more commonly seen in older and overweight dogs.
If left untreated, this disease can cause damage to various organs in the animal’s body, including the kidneys, heart, blood vessels, eyes, and nervous system. However, it is important to note that diabetes in dogs is a manageable condition, and many dogs with diabetes can lead happy and healthy lives, provided that they receive the necessary care.
6 symptoms of diabetes in dogs
The symptoms of diabetes in dogs can vary greatly. Dogs are more susceptible to diabetes between the ages of 6 and 9. Diabetes symptoms often include:
- Excessive thirst: One of the first symptoms of diabetes in dogs is excessive thirst and increased water consumption. If you notice that your dog has a particular craving for drinking water and the water bowl constantly empties, you should consider the possibility of diabetes. Diabetes can cause dry mouth and increased thirst.
- Increased urination: Another important symptom of this disease is frequent urination in animals. Many times, the dog may be forced to urinate in places where it shouldn’t. This issue is due to excessive water consumption throughout the day.
- Increased appetite: Dogs with diabetes have a greater tendency to consume food because their body cells are not utilizing enough glucose. This can lead to weight gain.
- Weight loss: Dogs may experience sudden weight loss due to increased metabolism.
- Lack of energy: Weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, and the need for more rest are commonly observed in dogs with diabetes.
- Occurrence of certain diseases such as Urinary tract infections and kidney problems, Delayed healing of small wounds, Decreased vision due to cataracts sudden blindness.
Diabetes in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management
Diagnosing diabetes and its treatment are of great importance. Therefore, take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible upon observing symptoms. You may be thinking, What is the dog clinic near me? We recommend the DownTown Clinic. In this clinic, the veterinarian can diagnose this disease in dogs using the following methods:
-Physical examination and assessment of diabetes symptoms in dogs
-Blood tests (CBC)
-Urinalysis
Ways to Prevent Diabetes in Dogs
The veterinarians at the DownTown Clinic recommend that you follow the following guidelines to prevent diabetes in dogs:
1-Regular check-ups
If your dog is affected by a specific disease such as pancreatitis, they are more likely to develop diabetes. Therefore, you should include regular check-ups and blood tests in their schedule. Also, be mindful of any symptoms in your dog so that you can promptly seek treatment if diabetes symptoms are observed.
2-Physical activity
Engaging in regular physical exercise plays a significant role in preventing diabetes, weight reduction, and blood sugar management. Dogs require daily physical activity to burn the calories they consume. Therefore, it is important to take them for daily walks to ensure they get the exercise they need.
3-Quality food consumption
The role of nutrition is also critical in preventing Diabetes in Dogs. Your dog’s diet should be rich in high-quality protein to help stabilize blood sugar levels. It is evident that consuming foods high in carbohydrates can increase blood sugar levels.
End word
To care for dogs, it is important to have sufficient knowledge about their physical and mental needs, as well as their diseases. Diabetes in Dogs is a common disease that can cause various issues in their bodies. Symptoms of this disease can include increased thirst, excessive urination, excessive fatigue, and similar conditions. Familiarizing yourself with the signs of diabetes in dogs is crucial so that you can quickly diagnose the disease and seek veterinary treatment.
Diabetes in dogs can be treated in various ways, including insulin injections, having an appropriate diet regimen, engaging in physical activity, and more. To prevent diabetes, methods such as spaying/neutering, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, and others are recommended. Diabetes in dogs is manageable, and by following important treatment guidelines, you can have this beloved animal companion for a longer period of time.