June 1, 2020
Diabetes in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes& Treatment
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is all about glucose and how the body handles it. All cells use glucose as their primary source of energy. With diabetes, the glucose-insulin connection isn’t working as it should. Diabetes occurs in dogs in two forms:
- Insulin-deficiency diabetes
- Insulin-resistance diabetes
Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs
- Excessive thirst
- Weakness
- Increased urination
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Hunger
- Irritability
- Frequent infections
Causes of Diabetes in Dogs
No one can say for sure what causes diabetes in dogs. Though it behaves like human diabetes, the underlying roots of the disease are not clear.
It is believed that certain lifestyle and environmental factors may be at play including obesity, autoimmune disease, pancreatitis, hormone therapies and steroids, and Cushing’s Disease. Genetic predisposition may also play a role.
Treatment
- The most common treatment for dogs is the regular injection of insulin.
- Diet -Your veterinarian will recommend the best type of diet for your diabetic dog. Usually, this will include some good-quality protein, as well as fiber and complex carbohydrates that will help to slow the absorption of glucose.
- consistent exercise routine
