Note: The information in this blog post is intended to provide general knowledge about canine diabetes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you have questions or concerns about your dog's health or notice any symptoms of diabetes, please contact your veterinarian immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

November is National Pet Diabetes Month, a time to bring awareness to this lifelong condition affecting roughly 1 in 230 cats and 1 in 300 adult dogs in the United States. This means that diabetes is a common health concern for our beloved pets, and veterinarians must be equipped to diagnose and treat it effectively.

Diabetes affects a pet's ability to produce or utilize insulin properly. This essential hormone helps convert food into energy. When insulin isn't working correctly, excess sugar builds up in the bloodstream, leading to lethargy and other health complications. While diabetes cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment and monitoring, allowing pets to live full and healthy lives.

How Glucose and Insulin Work Together

The relationship between glucose and insulin is essential for providing energy to the body's cells. When we eat, our bodies break down food into nutrients, including glucose, a type of sugar that fuels our cells. 

This glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the bloodstream, which then carries it throughout the body. At the same time, the pancreas, an organ located near the stomach, releases insulin, a hormone that acts like a gatekeeper. 

Insulin tells cells to take in glucose and other nutrients from the bloodstream and use them as fuel. This delicate balance ensures that our cells have the energy they need to function properly.

What Makes Pets More Likely to Get Diabetes?

While diabetes can develop at any age, some pets are more susceptible than others. Dogs are often diagnosed between the ages of 7 and 10, typically between 4 and 14 years old. Cats, on the other hand, are usually older than 6 when diagnosed.

Interestingly, diabetes appears to be more common in female dogs than males. Certain dog breeds, including pugs, miniature schnauzers, Samoyeds, and miniature poodles, are also considered at higher risk.

Obesity is another significant risk factor for both cats and dogs. As pets age, they may also develop other health issues that can increase their chance of getting diabetes or make it harder to manage. These conditions include pancreatitis, heart disease, canine hyperadrenocorticism, feline hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and urinary tract and skin infections.

Finally, long-term use of medications like corticosteroids can also increase a pet's risk of developing diabetes.

Recognizing the Signs of Diabetes in Pets

Early detection is key to helping pets with diabetes live longer, healthier lives. Identifying the signs of diabetes early on can make a big difference. Some common symptoms include increased thirst and frequent urination. 

You might also notice your pet losing weight even though they seem to be eating normally. Sometimes, a decrease in appetite can also be a sign. Cloudy eyes, especially in dogs, and recurring infections like skin or urinary tract problems can also point to diabetes.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosing diabetes typically involves a combination of a physical examination, urine tests for glucose or ketones, and blood tests to check glucose levels.

Additional blood tests can help rule out other health conditions, and urine cultures can eliminate the possibility of a urinary tract infection.

Once diagnosed, diabetes management is a lifelong commitment for pet owners. This usually involves daily insulin injections, a special diet, regular glucose monitoring, and regular exercise. It's important to keep your pet's blood sugar levels within a healthy range to prevent dangerous spikes or drops. 

Each pet is unique, so a customized treatment plan is very important, including a new diet and the appropriate medications. Regular veterinary checkups are also essential to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Final Thoughts,

November's National Pet Diabetes Month is a big deal for all of us who love our beloved pets. It's a time to remember that diabetes can affect them just like it can affect humans, and we need to be aware of it. This month is all about helping our pets stay healthy. 

It's a chance to learn more about how diabetes works, how to prevent it, and how to take care of a pet with diabetes. After all, our pets are part of the family, and we want to keep them healthy for as long as possible.