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Diabetes in dogs and cats: What pet parents need to know

The Diabetes PetCare Alliance has declared November the month to raise awareness about diabetes in pets.

The disease in pets is similar to the disease in people. Diabetes prevents a pet from properly converting sugar into energy because the body does not produce any insulin, not enough insulin or is unable to use the insulin it does produce.

There are two types of diabetes. A pet whose body manufactures very little or no insulin has Type I diabetes. A pet whose body does not respond appropriately to the insulin it produces has Type II diabetes.

In some pets, diabetes may be linked to genetics. Some breeds are at increased risk for developing the disease, including beagles, Dobermans, German shepherds, golden and Labrador retrievers, keeshonds, poodles, Samoyeds, schnauzers and some terriers. Siamese and Burmese cats are also more prone to diabetes.

Pets may also be predisposed to diabetes by underlying medical conditions. Overweight pets are more likely to become diabetic. Middle-aged and senior pets are also at greater risk.

It is important to recognize the symptoms of diabetes so pets can begin treatment as soon as possible. Diabetic cats and dogs drink more water than usual. Dogs ask to go outside more often or have accidents in the house; cats may urinate outside the litter box.

Some diabetic pets may never seem to be able to eat enough food. Some begin losing weight and spend more time sleeping. Cats may stop grooming themselves.

An appointment with a veterinarian should be made as soon as possible if these symptoms are observed. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health consequences, including cataracts and urinary tract infections in dogs, and ketoacidosis, coma and death in both cats and dogs.

The veterinarian will perform an examination to determine the overall health of a pet and to rule out other diseases or infections. A blood test to measure blood glucose and a urinalysis to check for glucose in the urine and urinary tract infections will be done.

When a pet parent learns his pet has diabetes, it can be overwhelming. And while it is true that diabetes is a lifelong disease that requires ongoing treatment, it can be managed. Diabetic pets can live long and happy lives.

A veterinarian will recommend a treatment plan that usually includes daily insulin injections. Pet parents may find the idea of giving their pets injections intimidating at first, but most find it easier than they thought. When first beginning treatment with insulin, it may take a few weeks (and sometimes months) to find just the right dose.

Along with insulin injections, exercise, a prescription diet and regular exams also will be part of the treatment plan.

While it may seem that a diagnosis of diabetes is tragic, veterinarians are pleased to teach pet parents the proper care and monitoring necessary so diabetic pets can continue to be treasured members of the family for many years.

• Diana Stoll is the practice manager at Red Barn Animal Hospital with locations in Hampshire and Gilberts. Visit redbarnpetvet.com, or call (847) 683-4788 (Hampshire) or (847) 426-1000 (Gilberts).

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