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WHAT IS DIABETES MELLITUS?
Diabetes mellitus is a disease that leads to chronic elevation of blood glucose, meaning the "blood sugar" is too high. A hormone called insulin regulates blood sugar. If your pet's body does not produce enough insulin, or does not respond to available insulin, they may develop diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is a common illness of dogs and cats, as well of people.
WHAT CAUSES DIABETES MELLITUS?
No cause for diabetes mellitus has been identified. However, obese pets run a greater risk of developing diabetes than animals of normal weight. Ask you veterinarian about appropriate diet and exercise plan for your pet.
WHAT PHYSICAL SIGNS OF DIABETES COULD I SEE IN MY PET?
The most common sign of diabetes are increased water consumption, increased frequency of urination, and increased appetite. Weight loss may also be sign of diabetes. While there may be other explanations for these problems, diabetes should always be considered as a possible cause.
If you notice any changes in your pet's behavior or physical appearance that might indicate diabetes, visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will need to measure the level of glucose in your pet's blood and urine, as well as check for other disease that may be causing your pet to show these physical signs.
WHICH PETS ARE MOST SUSCEPTIBLE TO DIABETES?
Diabetes mellitus affects primarily middle-aged and older pets. Cats develop diabetes more often than dogs, and male cats get the disease about twice as frequently as females. The typical diabetic cat is overweight, although diabetes that remains untreated will cause a cat to lose weight over time.
Dogs of either sex and any breed may develop diabetes, but it is seen most commonly in obese females. Certain dog breeds (such a keeshond, miniature pinscher, and cairn terrier) are more likely than others to develop diabetes.
HOW CAN DIABETES MELLITUS BE TREATED?
High blood sugar will not go away by itself and must be treated according to your veterinarian's recommendations. If diabetes is left untreated, it can be fatal to your pet.
Pets with diabetes generally require insulin injections to stabilize blood sugar, but some diabetic cats can be stabilized with oral medications. These injections need to be given on certain areas of the body. Diet is an important component of treatment for dogs and cats. The dietary recommendations for diabetic cats have changed based on new findings-- talk to your veterinarian about your pet's diet. Not only is what your pets eats important, but also when they eat is important. We believe education about the disease and how to manage it is crucial to the outcome with your pet.
Once your pet has been stablized and testing is complete, you may begin treating him at home. Your veterinary health-care team will teach you how to handle and store insulin properly and how to administer insulin to your pet. In addition, you will need to follow their recommendations regarding an appropriate diet.
You'll need to visit the veterinary practice frequently in the first month or so as the veterinarian monitors your pet's progress. It may take a month or more to regulate your pet's insulin requirements and to normalize his blood glucose successfully.
HOW CAN I TAKE CARE OF MY DIABETIC PET AT HOME?
Consistency is the key to ensuring your pet's health. You must pay close attention to diet and administration of medication. Give your pet the same food in the same quantity at the same time every day. Give your pet insulin injection as directed by your veterinarian, including administering them on the same schedule each day. If you are going out of town, be sure to have someone care for your pet and give appropriate medication until you return. If you are unable to leave your pet with someone who can see to this responsibility remember that our office offers boarding with veterinary observation. If there are any problems you can rest assured that we will be on top of things.
Keep the following suggestions in mind as you care for your diabetic pet.
*Feed your pet only in accordance with you veterinarian's recommendations.
*Provide regular, controlled exercise for your pet-- the more exercise your pet gets, the less insulin his body requires. Try to stay in a routine of consistent, daily exercise; don't overdo it one day and then do nothing at all the next.
*Give your pet his medication at the same time every day. Don't make ant changes in medication without first checking with your veterinarian.
*Do not give insulin to your pet if they are not eating. Call your veterinarian immediately if you notice any change in appetite or behavior.
*Reward your pet with plenty of love for good behavior when you give insulin injections. To make the experience as comfortable as possible, be extremely patient and gentle.
*Keep a small container of honey or Karo Syrup on hand. If you pet acts sleepy, weak, or sluggish (lethargic), his blood glucose may be too low. Rub some honey or Karo Syrup on his gums and then take your pet to the veterinarian ASAP. The amount of honey or Karo Syrup you should give depends on the size of your pet. Ask your veterinarian how much to use so that you will be prepared.
Treating a diabetic pet requires a high level of commitment and dedication. With appropriate treatment and your patience and love, your diabetic pet can live comfortably for many years.
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