Diabetes in Cats and Dogs: What You Need to Know
It’s a sad fact that millions of cats and dogs across the world are living with diabetes. In recent years, there has been an alarming increase in cases of this disease, particularly in our pets. Fortunately, it’s not something you have to live with your pet. You can help combat the problem by incorporating a few lifestyle changes into your pet’s day-to-day life brought to you by vet clinic Edmonton. However, if left untreated, it can quickly get out of hand and result in serious complications for both you and your pet. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about diabetes in cats and dogs so that you can help prevent its spread from one member of the family to another.
What is Diabetes in cats and dogs?
Diabetes is a condition in which your pet’s pancreas produces very little or no insulin, which is necessary for the absorption of glucose (sugar) from the food you give it. Glucose is the fuel your body uses for energy, and without insulin, the glucose builds up in the blood, which causes the cells in your pet’s body to become unresponsive to insulin. This can cause your pet’s blood sugar to rise to dangerous levels and lead to serious complications. Your pet may also develop infections and illnesses because it does not have the ability to fight them off. Additionally, diabetic dogs and cats are at a higher risk for developing other conditions, including heart disease and kidney disease.
Types of Diabetes in cats and dogs
There are five main types of diabetes in cats and dogs. They are: – Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) – Also called juvenile-onset diabetes. – Insulin-independent diabetes mellitus (also called type 1 diabetes) – Also called juvenile-onset diabetes or childhood-onset diabetes. – Insulin-secreting diabetes mellitus (also called type 2 diabetes) – Also called adult-onset diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. – Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) – Also called pregnancy diabetes. – Hypoglycemia – Also called low blood sugar.
Causes of Diabetes in cats and Dogs
There are many reasons why a pet may develop diabetes. The most common is an autoimmune disease. As your pet grows older, it may also become overweight or obese. Both of these conditions can cause the pancreas to stop producing insulin, resulting in diabetes. Diabetes can also be caused by a bacterial or viral infection or by certain medications your pet may be taking for other conditions. If your pet is overweight or obese, it puts extra stress on the pancreas and often leads to diabetes.
Treatment of Diabetes in cats and Dogs by vet clinic Edmonton
Treatment for diabetes varies depending on the type of diabetes your pet has. The goal is to help your pet regulate its blood sugar levels so that it doesn’t have high or low blood sugar at any given time. The most common treatment for cats is a food diet that is high in protein and low in carbs. Dogs with IDDM require insulin injections to help regulate their blood sugar.
Prevention of Diabetes in Cats and dogs
The best way to prevent diabetes in cats and dogs is to be proactive. Take the time to understand the warning signs of the disease, as well as how to prevent them. You should also be sure to give your cat or dog the proper nutrition and exercise. Additionally, get your pet spayed or neutered early. These are all things you can do to make it easier for your pet to stay healthy and combat diabetes.
With Vet Clinic Edmonton, no need to worry!
Diabetes is a serious disease that can quickly get out of control if left untreated. Given how common it is among cats and dogs, you may be wondering how you can prevent it from affecting one of your pets. There are a few things you can do to make it easier for your pets to stay healthy, including getting them vaccinated for certain diseases, keeping them fed and watered, and keeping them trim and fit with regular exercise. Additionally, you can make sure your pet doesn’t become overweight or obese. Finally, you can make sure that your pet doesn’t develop certain health conditions, such as diabetes, by staying proactive and making sure the health of your pets is up to par.
Your pet deserves the utmost care and support. Lakeview Animal Hospital is a safe, welcoming, and accommodating place for you and your pet as a vet clinic Edmonton. We hope this article brought to you by your trusted vet Edmonton. As always, please feel free to reach out with questions about your pet as your veterinarian Edmonton.