November 11, 2021
Diabetes is no joke for pets—cats and dogs included. This month is National Pet Diabetes Month, and the goal is to increase awareness of this serious disease for our furry family members. This month we’re helping spread awareness by answering the question: what are the symptoms of diabetes in pets? It’s not always straightforward and some pets display little or no symptoms. An official diagnosis by a veterinarian is always best. If you notice any symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with a vet.
Across species, the occurrence of diabetes is about 1 in every 300 for dogs and 1 in 230 for cats. There’s been an increase over recent years due to a combination of genetic, dietary, and activity-related factors.
Female dogs are more prone to diabetes, but it’s the opposite for cats: male cats are twice as likely to have diabetes than females. For felines, only Burmese cats are prone to the disease, whereas dogs have several susceptible breeds. According to this study, samoyeds, miniature schnauzers, miniature poodles, pugs, and toy poodles are the most common dog breeds to have diabetes. On the flip side, German shepherds, golden retrievers, and pit bulls are the least likely.
The signs we see in cats and dogs are similar. Check out the list below to see if your pet may exhibit symptoms of diabetes:
Some pets may not display all of these symptoms, so it’s best to make sure your pet is getting regular check-ups.
A vet will conduct a preliminary exam on your pet and then assess their glucose levels. If your cat or dog has diabetes, insulin injections are one of the most common and effective treatments. The insulin will help your pet’s pancreas manage glucose the way it should. In conjunction with insulin treatments, the vet will most likely prescribe a new diet and exercise program for your pet.
Often, diabetic diets are focused on providing high-quality proteins, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and fats to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. If the diabetes is mild enough, a strict diet and exercise regimen may be enough. Diet and exercise can help manage symptoms and improve the overall health of your furry loved one.
It’s not always clear if your pet has diabetes. Maybe they’re acting a little differently, but you’re not sure what’s wrong. It’s always best to play it safe for your pet and bring them to a veterinarian. Our pets are a part of your family, and you want the best for them.
Contact us today, and we’d be happy to help your pet and answer any questions you may have!
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