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What is diabetes? -

Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (or blood sugar) that affects how your body turns food into energy. Over time, the condition leads to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. It's a common disorder, and animals suffer from it, too.

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Chances of developing diabetes -

It's estimated that one in every 500 dogs and one in 230 cats will develop diabetes during their lifetime.

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Age of onset -

Diabetes in dogs and cats can occur at any age. Diabetic dogs are usually four to 14 years of age, and most are diagnosed at roughly seven to 10 years of age. The majority of diabetic cats are older than six years of age.

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Female dogs at greater risk -

Female dogs are three times more likely to have diabetes than males.

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Male cats at greater risk -

But it is male cats who are more prone to diabetes than females.

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Obesity a major factor -

And whether male or female, fat felines are four times as likely to get diabetes. Likewise, an overweight dog, whatever its sex, runs the risk of developing the disease.

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What dog breeds are more at risk? -

Certain dog breeds, including the Yorkshire terrier, are more susceptible to diabetes than others. Poodles, miniature schnauzers, pugs, bichon frises, and beagles are also among those at greater risk.

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Overuse of steroid medications -

Long-term use of medications containing corticosteroids is also a risk factor for diabetes, both in cats and dogs.

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Other medical conditions -

Cushing's disease, pancreatitis, and autoimmunity are among a variety of other medical conditions that can encourage diabetes.

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Different causes -

Diabetes can also be prompted by overactivity of the adrenal gland in dogs (hyperadrenocorticism) or overactivity of the thyroid gland in cats (hyperthyroidism).

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Contributory factors -

Heart disease, kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and skin infections are often contributory factors in the onset of diabetes.

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What are the signs of diabetes in pets? -

Excessive water drinking is a primary indicator that your pet may have diabetes. The condition causes high blood sugar that's either due to insulin deficiency or insulin resistance. When the blood glucose reaches a certain level, the glucose overflows into the urine (this is called glucosuria) and draws large volumes of water with it. In response, your pet will drink more.

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Excessive urinating -

As a result of excessive water intake, your pet will urinate more frequently—another early indicator of diabetes.

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Weight loss -

Symptoms of diabetes in pets extends to weight loss, even though your cat or dog may have a ravenous appetite.

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Decreased appetite -

Confusingly, a decreased appetite may also indicate the onset of diabetes.

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Cloudy eyes -

Be on the lookout for cloudy eyes. This is a telltale sign of diabetes in cats, and, especially, dogs.

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Fatigue -

If your pet appears fatigued, it may be displaying signs of diabetes. This is more difficult to ascertain in cats because of their habit of sleeping an average of 15 hours a day.

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Chronic infections -

Chronic or recurring infections may indicate diabetes. Skin conditions and urinary disorders are in fact commonplace.

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When to visit the vet -

If you suspect your pet is displaying signs of diabetes, book an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

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Diagnosis -

Your vet will confirm a diagnosis of diabetes by finding consistent hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and glucosuria (glucose in the urine). Additional tests may also be run to rule out other medical conditions.

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Different type of diabetes -

The condition can be diagnosed as insulin-dependent diabetes (similar to type 1 in humans). This is most common in dogs. Non-insulin-dependent diabetes (similar to type 2 in humans) predominantly affects cats. Type 3 diabetes, related to high concentrations of hormones contributing to insulin resistance, is  reported in both dogs and cats.

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Treatment options -

Diabetes cannot be cured. But it can be successfully managed so your pet can live a long and happy life.

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Insulin therapy -

Diabetes is normally managed with insulin injections, which are given to the patient under the skin twice a day to keep their glucose levels under control. Note that insulin cannot be given orally.

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Learning how to look after your pet -

The procedure may sound daunting to the uninitiated. But your vet can show you how to administer therapy so you can get comfortable doing it at home.

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Monitoring results -

Blood glucose levels need to be monitored closely. Regular testing will help ensure your pet is maintaining the proper levels. This can de done at home. However, it's recommended you take your furry friend for a checkup with your vet every few months.

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Prescription diet -

Treatment can also involve introducing your pet to a prescription diet to keep your pet's glucose levels in check. A specialized diet can also aid weight loss if your dog or cat is obese.

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Regular exercise -

Activity should always be a part of your pet's daily routine, but especially so to maintain blood glucose levels and to encourage weight loss if your pet is overweight. Dogs, of course, require several walks a day. But how do you exercise a cat?

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Fun and games -

Cats love to play. A feline's instinct is to chase, pounce, and possess. Play with your pet for a few short sessions every day. Offer lots of environmental enrichment for your cat—shelves to climb for example, or empty cardboard boxes to explore.

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Warning signs -

Watch out for warning signs. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) can result in symptoms already described. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can result in lethargy, weakness, and seizures. An insulin overdose can be just as harmful as an insulin underdose.

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Long-term prognosis -

With proper management and regular veterinary care, cats and dogs can live long and healthy lives. And they'll love you for it!

Sources: (RSPCA) (PDSA) (American Kennel Club) (AVMA) (PetMD)

See also: The best pet for you based on your zodiac sign

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