Diabetes In Animals

   The number of dogs diagnosed with diabetes mellitus has increased three-fold in thirty years. In survival rates from around the same time only 50% survived the first 60 days after diagnosis and went on to successfully treated at home. Currently diabetic dogs receiving treatment have the same expected lifespan as non-diabetic dogs of the same age and gender. Gestational diabetes can develop in dogs as well. It can be prevented by behavioral and dietary management. Diabetes insipidus, which has nothing to do with blood sugar, but is a condition of insufficient antidiuretic hormone or resistance to it,, also exist in dogs. Sometimes, the first sign of diabetes noticed by the owner may be that their dog either has become blind or has vomiting, anorrexia, lethargy and weakness due to ketoacidosis. Blood pressure of the dog should also be constantly and daily checked in order to predict any future occurence. The blood sugar level may also be checked using glucometer to check the glucose level in the body of the dog.

   Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the incidence of complications such as cataract and neuropathy. Since dogs are insulin dependent, oral diabetes drugs, which require a functional endocrine pancreas with beta cells capable of producing insulin, are ineffective. Diabetic dogs require insulin therapy, which must be continued for life. The goal of treatment is to regulate blood glucose using insulin and some probable diet and daily routine changes.