Health Article
- Diabetes in dogs
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a disorder where the body either fails to produce enough insulin or cannot use it properly. It causes levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood to be high. Normally when blood glucose levels increase, the pancreas releases a hormone called insulin which lowers the blood glucose and prevents it from getting too high. In most cases of canine diabetes, the pancreas stops producing insulin, meaning the body can’t regulate glucose levels. Less commonly, the pancreas makes insulin, but the body does not process it properly.
Any dog can develop diabetes, however, it is most common in middle aged to older dogs. It is also seen slightly more often in dogs with a history of pancreatic disease.
What are the symptoms of Diabetes in dogs?
The most common symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and often increased appetite. Diabetic dogs are more prone to cataract formation which can affect the vision.
Eventually the lack of insulin prevents the body using glucose for energy. Instead the fat is metabolised, which releases molecules called ketones. These are harmful and if they accumulate, cause a condition called ketoacidosis. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness, and sweet smelling breath.
What tests are used to diagnose Diabetes in dogs?
A thorough history and clinical examination will often raise a strong suspicion of diabetes. Several tests are then used in combination to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
General blood tests:
These will measure blood glucose as well as checking the liver, kidneys, protein levels, and blood cells. They screen for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms to diabetes or occur at the same time.
Urine assessment:
Diabetic dogs will have high levels of glucose in their urine. They may also have ketones present.
How is Diabetes treated?
Diabetes is treated by injecting synthetic insulin once or twice daily. This needs to be done every day for the rest of the dog’s life. It is important that both mealtimes and insulin injections are regular, and that all family members who look after the dog understand the treatment required.
Dogs who are bright and well at diagnosis can often be managed as an outpatient. Dogs who are unwell, especially if ketoacidotic, often need hospitalisation. It can be very challenging to stabilise a dog who is not eating at the time of diagnosis, as regular meals are essential for accurate glucose control. As a result, it is not uncommon that unwell dogs remain in hospital for 4-7 days after diagnosis.
What is the outlook of dogs with Diabetes?
Diabetes in dogs has a reasonable to good prognosis. Most dogs respond well to treatment, although it’s important say that stabilisation can take many months. A small number of dogs do not respond well to treatment and struggle to stabilise.
A stable routine is key to successful management, however, even well controlled diabetics can have a changing response to medication over time and are at risk of becoming unstable. Regular monitoring by a veterinarian is therefore needed, even for the most stable patients. It is not uncommon for diabetics to require occasional periods of hospitalisation during their lives, as simple conditions such as a gastrointestinal upset can disrupt glucose control.
If you have any concerns, queries or advice about diabetes, please contact your veterinary practice.