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how to help pets with diabetes
Diabetes is a life-threatening chronic condition. Happily, you can help your pet with proper diet and medical management. Talk to your veterinary team if you spot any of the symptoms below. If your pet is diagnosed with diabetes, we can recommend treatment, special diets, and care to help manage your pet’s blood sugar.
Diabetes is a disease that results when your pet’s body can’t produce enough insulin to manage their blood sugar levels. Too much blood sugar, or glucose, throws your BFF’s entire metabolism out of whack, putting an immense strain on other body systems that rely on a stable blood sugar supply. Untreated diabetes in pets can lead to long-term health problems, even death.
Unfortunately, about 1 in every 300 dogs, and 1 in every 100 cats, are diagnosed with diabetes in their lifetimes. While cats and dogs can develop diabetes at any age, diabetes is typically diagnosed when dogs are over 4 years old and cats are older than 6. Overweight or obese pets are especially at risk.
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Want to help your pet avoid diabetes? Help them maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is a big risk factor for pets, so help them out with a quality diet, the proper calorie count, and regular exercise. See more about healthy weights
What is insulin, and why does managing insulin matter?
Insulin, a hormone created by the pancreas, transfers glucose from the bloodstream into the cells that need it for energy.
Your pet’s digestive system is marvelously designed to take food and convert it into energy for life, including into a simple sugar called glucose. Insulin is a key player in getting those glucose where it needs to go.
What does diabetes look like in pets?
The first thing most pet owners notice is that their pet is drinking a lot of water and peeing more than usual. This may be paired with weight loss. Many pets continue to lose weight even if they eat their regular amount, while others, particularly cats, may simply lose their appetite.
If you spot the following symptoms, contact your veterinary team:
What should I do if my pet has diabetes?
Once your pet’s diagnosis is confirmed, your veterinary team can help advise you on how to manage your pet’s needs. Many diabetic cats and dogs need regular insulin injections to help them process their excess glucose, plus a special diet and regular exercise.
Fiber can be fab
Diabetic pets often need a special diet to help maintain a healthy blood sugar level, typically one high in fiber and low in carbohydrates. There are many quality commercially-available diabetic pet foods available, so ask your veterinary team which one they recommend for your unique pet.
Establish a routine
Make sure to feed your pet the exact recommended amount and give them their meds at the same time every day. A consistent routine can help to stabilize their system and prevent crazy blood sugar fluctuations.
Watch their water intake
Make sure your pet always has plenty of fresh water available. Your pet’s thirst should ease a bit once they start treatment — but if the greedy gulping starts up again, reach out to your veterinary team about evaluating their treatment plan.
Keep an eye on their plates
If your pet stops eating, their usual insulin dose could be dangerous. Check with your veterinary team for instructions before you follow your regular routine.
Sweat with your pet
Whether it’s feather toy playtime with your cat or a walk with your dog, exercise them regularly so they can maintain a healthy weight.
Track treatment
Keep a record of your pet’s meals and injections to avoid accidental insulin overdose. Follow all directions if you’re asked to regularly test their blood or urine for glucose levels. And if a friend or family member is caring for your BFF, make sure they know where you keep the record and what to do.
Insulin overdose (and underdose) is a medical emergency
If your pet requires insulin, your veterinary team will advise you on the correct timing and amount of each injection. Keeping an accurate record of each dose can help you avoid accidentally underdosing or overdosing your pet.
If your diabetic pet shows these signs, please seek immediate emergency care:
- Weakness
- Shaking or tremors
- Seizures
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