Deb D’Andrea, Nederland.  Amazingly, approximately one in 400 dogs and cats get diabetes, with most dogs being Type-1 and cats being Type-2.  Initial symptoms are weight loss, and excess urination and drinking, similar to symptoms experienced by humans who have Type-1 diabetes. The causes of pet diabetes are up for debate, but several believe it is directly associated with pet food consumed and a general lack of exercise. It is known that some dog breeds, like Keeshonds and Samoyeds, are genetically predisposed to diabetes.

Early diagnosis is essential, as if left undiagnosed lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and possibly depression will set in; which are followed by potential liver and bladder problems, and the development of cataracts. Also, their breath may have a sweet or chemical smell.

Treatment is the injection of insulin, just as for humans, and there are various types of insulin shots, with some lasting four hours and other lasting up to twenty-eight hours. It is important to maintain a strict schedule when giving the insulin injections to prevent hyperglycemia after eating.

Each pet is different and it will take time to stabilize your pet’s condition and find the right dose.  Then a blood glucose curve will be done periodically to monitor progress. Once you have their dosage figured out, it’s time to get them back in the swing of things with play time, interactive toys, hikes and swimming exercises.

A great snack is raw carrots, something my girls enjoy and eat like crazy along with green beans and other veggies. A good look at what they are eating is essential, removing anything that may contain high fructose sugar and other elements that can add to the diabetes. A strict diet, with two or three meals a day, will help them rebound and help their bodies help themselves.  If you’d like to cook for them, there are several web sites with home cooking recipes for diabetic pets.

So if you see your pet exhibiting these symptoms, take a trip your local Vet for a checkup to determine if they have Pet Diabetes. If they don’t, great; otherwise you will have hopefully nipped their diabetes in the beginning, setting them up for a healthy future.

Till next time. Deb D’Andrea, founder of 4TheLuvOfDogz, provides mobile Canine Massage, Canine Agility and Petz Nanny Services for dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses, and other critters. 4TheLuvOfDogz home-made dog treats are sold at local stores, and K9Birthday Cakes are available direct. Contact Deb at 720-675-7078 or info@4theluvofdogz.com for more information.