Diabetes

It is very common today to pick up a newspaper or watch the TV news and see a report on the link between human diabetes and obesity, which is increasing in prevalence. It is the same case for cats and dogs.

Diabetes is a lack of the hormone insulin, which regulates glucose in the body. Without insulin, glucose is unable to enter cells as an energy source, and the blood levels of glucose rise.

There are many causes of diabetes in dogs and cats. These include obesity, genetic predisposition, pancreatitis, concurrent diseases eg. Cushings/hyperadrenocorticism and drugs that interefere with the action of insulin eg. prednisolone used for itchy skin.

Virtually all dogs with diabetes are insulin dependent from diagnosis.

Some cats may be managed for short or long periods without insulin.

Juvenile onset diabetes is uncommon in both.

Common symptoms include increased drinking and urination, increased appetite and weight loss.

Other symptoms include cataracts, and in cats weakness to the back legs. A serious complication of diabetes is diabetic ketoacidosis, when the body produces toxic acids in an effort to use energy from sources other than glucose. This produces signs of lethargy, inappetance and vomiting in a very short period.

Diagnosis is relatively easy and involves a urine and a blood test. Other tests may be required if

concurrent diseases are suspected.

Treatment is usually as an outpatient unless the patient is ketoacidotic.

This involves correction of any predisposing conditions, insulin injections and dietary management. Cataracts can be surgically removed by a specialist.

With some tender loving care from their owners, most diabetic pets are able to live normal, active, healthy lives!