Dogs are not normally at the top of our minds when we hear about diabetes. Dogs are susceptible to developing diabetes, much like humans. With the right care and medication, diabetic dogs may have regular lives like their human counterparts. In diabetes mellitus, cells fail to absorb sufficient glucose, which accumulates in the blood. Organs constantly exposed to sugary blood die as a consequence of cellular starvation. Learn about the signs of canine diabetes here.
Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs
Strange canine behavior might make you worry that your pet has diabetes. Knowing the signs of diabetes in dogs will help you keep an eye out for the condition, which is more common in canines of all breeds and can have significant consequences if left untreated. If diabetes is not managed, your dog is at a higher risk for getting other dangerous conditions. Therefore, you may refer to this list if you suspect your dog has diabetes.
Urinates More Often
Polyuria, or excessive urination, is a common symptom of diabetes in dogs and a common reason their owners take their pets in for testing. When your dog has diabetes, its kidneys will have to work harder than usual to excrete the extra glucose in his blood and urine when his blood sugar levels are too high. You should expect increased urination and drinking habits from your dog.
Throwing Up Without Apparent Reason
Vomiting may indicate advanced diabetes when other organs begin to respond to blood sugars that have been raised for an extended period of time. Any animal that is excessively vomiting may have a medical emergency requiring a vet’s care. Dogs may throw up for a number of reasons, including pancreatitis and high blood sugar. Visit an emergency animal hospital to help you in your pet’s condition.
Vision Is Worsening
Diabetes is manageable in canines. Unfortunately, cataracts are a frequent consequence of diabetes in dogs. Indeed, after nine months of being diagnosed with diabetes, most dogs acquire cataracts and go blind in both eyes. Accelerated cataract development is a common symptom. Lens-induced uveitis (LIU) is an intraocular inflammation caused by cataracts that may lead to glaucoma if not addressed. Probably, cataract surgery won’t be an option if the LIU isn’t managed and glaucoma sets in. This page will lead you to a dermatologist that can help you with your pet’s cataract.
Uncontrollable Appetite
Since insulin is a hormone generated by the pancreas to control blood sugar, a veterinarian would often attribute a diabetic dog’s insatiable appetite to the disorder. Diabetes may be the cause if your dog never stops eating yet continues to experience weight loss. In the absence of glucose, your dog’s body will enter a state known as “starvation mode,” causing it to increase its food intake.
Skin Seem to Be in Poor Condition
Poor hair and skin quality are common in untreated diabetic dogs. A haircoat that lacks luster and thins down, as well as dandruff and dry, scaly skin, are all signs that a dog is chronically dehydrated due to excessive water loss in the urine and inadequate nutrient intake due to insulin resistance. Insulin treatment effectively treats these disorders because it allows the body to divert resources previously used to maintain vital organ function into growing and maintaining healthy fur. Visit animergevets.com to learn more about who can help you with your pet’s skin condition.
