Detect Signs Of Diabetes In Dogs
Diabetes mellitus is a common canine disease resulting from inadequate insulin production in the pancreas.
Many dog breeds are genetically predisposed to diabetes, but it can also come as a result of obesity and poor diet. It is especially common in female dogs between the ages of 6 and 9.
Some signs and symptoms that your dog may have diabetes
Drinking a lot of water and urinating frequently. Glucose in the urine causes a dog with diabetes to urinate excessively, leading to dehydration and the urge to consume large amounts of water.
Eating more food than normal. Dogs who do not metabolize enough sugar have more of an appetite and will often eat more food at meal times, eat more quickly, and beg for food more often. In addition, if the dog is in the later stages of diabetes, his or her appetite may drop as a result of malnourishment. Here is a guide to cooking healthy foods for your diabetic pet.
Weight loss. Some dogs may lose weight as a result of diabetes. If your dog experiences an unexplained weight loss, ask your veterinarian to check for diabetes.
Blindness. Diabetic cataracts are especially common in dogs but can occur in cats as well. Dogs with vision problems and even total blindness may be exhibiting symptoms of diabetes.
Tiredness and lack of energy. When an animal’s cells are deprived of sugar for energy, he or she may exhibit a general lethargic disposition and a lack of desire to run, walk, or play. Dogs who sleep throughout most of the day may be showing signs of Type II diabetes.
Vomiting and loss of appetite. Diabetic dogs experience trauma to all organs in the body, so even a healthy diet can result in nausea and vomiting. It may also be a sign of ketoacidosis, which is caused by the body metabolizing fat for energy because sugar is unavailable. This can also be detected by a distinct breath odor, somewhat like nail polish remover. This is a life-threatening emergency and should be treated by a veterinarian immediately.
Here is a guide to managing canine diabetes at home.