Although diabetes is a common chronic disease in dogs, there still isn't any diabetes cure for pets. Diagnosis of diabetes can help the vet lay down dietary and lifestyle guidelines that can keep blood sugar levels under control and prevent the disease from adversely affecting your pet. In the interest of your pet's health, it's imperative that these dietary and lifestyle guidelines are strictly adhered to.
Canine Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that develops when cells in the pancreas don't produce sufficient amounts of insulin, or when the cells in certain organs of the body become resistant to the action of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the absorption of sugar in the body. Malfunctioning of this hormone leads to hyperglycemia (high levels of blood sugar) as the body loses its ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
The onset of diabetes is generally observed in dogs that are between 7 and 9 years of age. The disease is also more common in obese dogs. Breeds that are prone to diabetes include poodles, cocker spaniels, dachshunds and beagles.
Symptoms of Canine Diabetes Include:
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Increased appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
Complications Associated with Canine Diabetes
If the condition is undetected for long, your pet may become ketotic as cells start using fat as an energy source rather than glucose. When fat is used, ketone bodies start accumulating in the blood. A ketotic pet's breath may smell of acetone and he may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, depression, weakness and rapid breathing. It's crucial that yearly blood sugar tests are carried out to ensure that diabetes does not advance to such a high level, because this can be fatal for your pet.
Living with Diabetes
Although there is no cure for diabetes, it can be treated through insulin therapy and changes in diet. It's crucial that the diet of your pet is regulated as recommended by the vet. The type and amount of food consumed by your pet should be strictly monitored. Food that's rich in fiber and protein and meals that contain low amounts of fat and carbohydrates are preferable. Smaller meals given two to three times a day also help in regulating sugar levels.
If your dog needs insulin, it's advisable to give the injection half an hour after he has had a third of his daily amount of food. The rest of the food should be given eight to ten hours later. A female pet should be spayed to prevent female hormones from affecting blood sugar levels. This helps to stabilize insulin levels.
The Benefits of Exercise
Exercise helps lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, you must ensure that your pet has sufficient daily exercise. There should be consistency in the type and the duration of exercise that's performed, to prevent the blood sugar levels from fluctuating.
Diabetic dogs need lots of love and attention to help them lead a healthy life. Unlike humans, pets can't express feelings of malaise.