There are conditions that affect people as well as pups. And unfortunately, diabetes is one of them. So if you’ve noticed changes in your pup’s appetite, bathroom habits or energy levels, in addition to the formation of cloudy eyes, you’ll want to ask your veterinarian about diabetes in dogs. Luckily, this condition is manageable.
“Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not process sugar in a normal way due to a lack of insulin, a hormone released from the pancreas that allows the body to use sugar as an energy source,” Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch’s on-staff veterinarian, says. “This leads to high levels of sugar in the blood.”
According to Dr. McCullough, although people can experience two types of diabetes (type 1 and type 2), dogs are only affected by type 1, which means their bodies can't produce insulin. Sugar diabetes is the informal name for diabetes in dogs.
“Diabetes is caused by the destruction of the cells that make insulin by the immune system, chronic pancreatitis and breed-related genetic causes,” Dr. McCullough adds.
Female pups (usually older than 6 years) and breeds like bichon frises, Labrador Retrievers, miniature schnauzers, poodles, pugs and Yorkshire Terriers are more likely to develop diabetes because of their genetics, Dr. McCullough says. Chronic pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, can also be a risk for developing diabetes.
There are some telltale signs that signal your pup is struggling with diabetes. Take your dog to the vet if you notice the following symptoms:
According to Dr. McCullough, veterinarians diagnose diabetes in dogs by performing a thorough veterinary examination, which includes a nose to tail physical exam to evaluate all of their body parts. Blood and urine testing may also be necessary, she adds.
Unfortunately, Dr. McCullough says there’s no cure for diabetes in dogs. However, there are some treatment options your vet could recommend to manage the condition — one being insulin injections that are given throughout the rest of your dog’s life.
Diabetes can cause long-term health risks for your dog, including cataracts (which can lead to loss of vision), weakness in the hind legs, tremors or seizures, low blood sugar, high blood pressure or urinary tract infections (UTI). In these cases, your vet will likely recommend treatment for your dog’s diabetes and their secondary condition, too, Dr. McCullough adds.
Your veterinarian may also recommend a diet specifically for diabetic dogs. Dr. McCullough says that while obesity is not a risk factor for dog diabetes, maintaining a healthy body condition can help prevent other conditions which can complicate your dog’s diabetes treatment.
“Veterinary recommended diets for dogs with diabetes are typically high in fiber,” Dr. McCullough explains.
There’s no way to prevent your dog from developing diabetes, but regular veterinary examinations, in addition to blood and urine testing, can help detect it early.
Another long-term risk of diabetes is diabetic ketoacidosis. According to Dr. McCullough, it occurs when there are high levels of acids, otherwise known as ketones, in a dog’s blood caused by the extra buildup of glucose (sugar in a dog’s blood).
“Ketoacidosis is a life-threatening illness that causes vomiting and diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, elevated heart rate, lethargy and dehydration,” Dr. McCullough says. Talk to your veterinarian about the risks of diabetic ketoacidosis.
It’s a good idea to ask your veterinarian about diabetes insipidus, too. Dr. McCullough explains that this occurs when a dog lacks the antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which usually tells the kidneys to conserve water.
“Without ADH or without the ability to respond to ADH, the kidneys cannot conserve water and diluted urine is then produced, and dogs are at risk for severe rapid dehydration,” she adds.
With these tips, you’ll know how to spot diabetes early and get your pup the care and treatment they need to manage their diabetes.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
Save up to 90% on unexpected vet bills
Use any veterinarian in the U.S. or Canada
Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
The most comprehensive pet insurance
Photo by Chewy on Unsplash
up to 90% of vet bills – covered.
Every 6 seconds, a pet parent gets a $1000+ vet bill. Care for your pet & your wallet with Fetch.
Get your price
