Diabetes in Cats and Dogs
We may not consider it much, however our animals can get diabetes. In reality, diabetes is pretty typical in cats and dogs, and it’s on the rise in both of these types. Fortunately, if you have a beloved cat or dog who has diabetes, you can assist him lead a healthy life with this condition.
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Diabetes in felines
Similar to in human beings, diabetes in cats is caused by an absence of insulin or by insulin’s inability to do its job. Cats can have either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is more common in cats, but eventually, practically all felines with Type 2 will have to go on insulin. About one in 1200 felines will establish diabetes, and the risk increases in felines who are older, obese, or male.
Causes of diabetes in felines
Some felines are genetically predisposed to obtaining diabetes. Diabetes may also occur due to pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism, Cushing disease, and particular medications.
Symptoms of diabetes in cats
Typical signs and symptoms of diabetes in felines consist of:
- an increase or decrease in cravings
- weight loss
- excessive thirst or consuming a lot of water
- increased urination
- urinating outside of the litter box
- sweet-smelling breath
- oily fur with dandruff
- muscle squandering
- weight problems
- sleepiness
Diagnosing diabetes in felines
If you discover any of the above signs or symptoms in your kitty, take him to the veterinarian. The vet will take a history, do a physical examination, carry out blood work, and do a urinalysis. If your cat has diabetes, he will have high levels of glucose in his blood and urine; he may likewise have urine ketones and elevated liver function tests.
Dealing with diabetes in cats
Diabetes treatment for people with diabetes differs, and the exact same holds true for cats. Left without treatment, your cat can develop kidney disease or neurological damage. Some felines can be managed with dietary treatment (a lower-carb, higher-protein diet) alone. There are special cat food solutions that are designed for felines with diabetes. Some felines can take oral diabetes medication, such as glipizide or acarbose. However a lot of cats will need insulin.
The feline may need to be hospitalized when insulin is begun. Insulin needs are based on the cat’s diet, so as much as possible, it’s essential to attempt and have your feline eat constant meals and eat about the exact same amount of food daily (noise familiar?). Keeping your cat at a healthy weight is very important; chubby cats might be adorable, but the additional weight can increase diabetes risk and make existing diabetes harder to manage. Your vet may advise checking your feline’s blood sugar and basing his insulin requires on these readings.
Also read: Diabetes Alert Dogs
Diabetes in dogs
Just like cats, dogs can establish Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, although Type 1 is more common. Dogs with Type 1 diabetes need insulin for survival. Unattended diabetes can result in urinary tract infections, cataracts, coma, and death. Certain types of dogs are more prone to obtaining diabetes, such as Australian terriers, miniature and basic schnauzers, golden retrievers, dachshunds, and poodles. Likewise, older dogs have a higher risk of diabetes.
Causes of diabetes in dogs
Diabetes in dogs can be hereditary or brought on by pancreatitis, autoimmune disease, obesity, medications, or protein deposits in the pancreas.
Symptoms of diabetes in dogs
Common signs and symptoms of diabetes in dogs include:
- a boost or decrease in cravings
- weight loss
- excessive thirst or drinking a great deal of water
- regular urination
- fragrant breath
- lethargy
- urinary tract infections
- vomiting
- cataracts or blindness
- chronic skin infections
Diagnosing diabetes in dogs
Your veterinarian will carry out a physical exam, take note of your dog’s history of symptoms and signs, and order blood work and a urinalysis.
Treating with diabetes in dogs
It’s possible for some dogs to manage their diabetes by diet and oral medicine. However, the majority of dogs will need insulin injections (frequently two times day-to-day) to endure. Insulin works best when the dog eats on a regular schedule to prevent swings in blood sugar levels. Care has to be taken to restrict treats and ensure sufficient exercise to assist keep his weight in check. You may have to inspect your dog’s blood sugar to make sure that he’s getting the correct amount of insulin.
Diabetes needs to be managed in your cat or dog. Be prepared to hang around doing this; also, be prepared for the cost of medicine/insulin, blood glucose monitoring materials, special food (if recommended by the vet), and possibly more regular trips to the vet. On the other hand, a healthy animal is a happy animal, and just like humans, animals can live long, healthy lives with diabetes. Talk with your vet about how to effectively care for a feline or dog with diabetes.
