Is Your Pet Living With Diabetes?
Since November is National Pet Diabetes Awareness Month, we here at Max and Mittens wanted to make sure you were aware of the common symptoms because the first step in treating the disease is being able to recognize it. We’ll also share some things you can do to prevent it and some resources in case you happen to be affected by it.
Pets get diabetes?
Yes. An estimated one in 200 cats and one in 500 dogs globally have been diagnosed with the disease. Yet, many people don’t even realize that dogs and cats can get diabetes, which is a disease caused by a lack of insulin that affects the level of glucose, or sugar, in your blood. Glucose comes from the food that you eat, and insulin is required to process glucose so that it can be absorbed in the body. The problem comes when there is too much insulin, not enough or what is being produced isn’t absorbed and builds up in the body. Ironically, it affects us the same way that it affects humans and can lead to cataract formation in dogs and hind leg weakness in cats.
What to watch for?
According to Dr. M. Margaret King, a longtime veterinarian in Edmond, OK, here are some initial symptoms of diabetes to be on the lookout for:
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Possible sudden weight loss
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Lack of energy and listlessness
- Excessive hunger while losing weight
- Lethargy (less active/sleeps more)
- Cloudy eyes (dogs)
- Doesn’t groom (cats)
- Thinning, dry and dull hair
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please have your Mom or Dad take you in for a diabetes screening. Your veterinarian will be able to determine whether you do or don’t have the disease and set a course of action. While it’s true, insulin injections are likely the best way to restore and maintain proper insulin levels, there are also some other factors that play an important role in your health.
Prevention is the key!
Since being overweight is a leading cause of diabetes, diet, exercise and regular check-ups for early detection are helpful in staying healthy before problems occur and even after diagnosis. Your veterinarian can recommend a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that provides the extra energy need without the extra carbs that can turn into excess sugar. Consistent timing and size of meals will also help a lot. Here’s what you can do for a healthier you:
Eat fewer treats! I know that’s a hard one, but push back from the bowl buddy.
Eat healthier foods. All-natural products with plenty of protein and no fillers or byproducts are great for your digestive system.
Get out there and play! Even if you’re an indoor pet, there are plenty of toys for dogs and cats that encourage exercise, like this light beam cat toy.
Take your owner out for a walk around the block. A consistent exercise routine will work wonders for your waistline!
As always, your veterinarian is the best resource for information. You may also contact the American Diabetes Assocation and visit petdiabetesmonth.com for more additional resources regarding Pet Diabetes Month.
