What Is Dog Diabetes?
What is dog diabetes? Normally, carbohydrates ingested by the canine are converted into glucose which serves to provide the body with energy. Glucose can only be properly processed through insulin, a pancreatic hormone found near the intestines. Diabetes mellitus is when there is a lack of insulin to properly keep the body functioning.
If the pancreas is not producing sufficient insulin; or if the cells in the animal’s body is not responding or is resistant, to the insulin—your pet is likely to have diabetes. Diabetes mellitus is not fatal in itself. In fact, many treatments are readily available that will ensure the dog’s quality and quantity of life.
How do you know if you have a diabetic dog? Look for excessive urination (polydipsia) and drinking unusually large amounts of water (polyuria) in your dog. Also, because the affected animal breaks down fat and protein in order to compensate for the lack of glucose, he will experience a significant loss of weight.
When these symptoms arise, take the animal to the vet for correct diagnosis as soon as possible. Initially, he will most likely get a urine sample from the canine to check for glucose in the urine. A blood test will further verify if the dog has exceptionally high levels of glucose in his bloodstream. Once diabetes is confirmed, a general examination is in order to find out if there will be other health concerns that may complicate his condition.
Treatment for dog diabetes may vary depending on the outcome of the check-up. Generally, insulin injection is administered but it will be different for every dog. Monitor if the dog seems to be urinating and drinking less water. After a few days, check the level of glucose concentration in the dog’s bloodstream again. Once the correct dosage is determined, a maintenance routine can be established.
And yes! Dog diabetes can be controlled with natural remedies, but do not ever stop your dog’s insulin without first discussing same with your vet. Initially with natural remedies for dog diabetes, you will need to continue with the insulin as well, but you may be able to reduce the dosage and even eventually discontinue it. And if your dog is in the early stages and has just been diagnosed, do discuss with your vet the option of trialling your dog first on a natural dog diabetes remedy.
It is essential that you provide your dog with a good diet and adequate exercise. Feed him food that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrate content. This regulates the release of glucose better. Do not give your dog just any kind of snacks. Never given anything with sugar, and limit high fat snacks to an absolute minimum.
Exercise induces better blood flow which in turn, improves insulin absorption. If you never engaged your dog in physical activity before, start slowly. If a previously inactive diabetic dog suddenly participates in intense physical exercise, his blood sugar level will decrease – depriving his brain of energy which will result in unconsciousness. Be careful of how you go about this.
The most common complication of diabetes mellitus is cataracts, wherein hyperglycaemia or high blood glucose levels cause the lens of the eyes to be disrupted. Diabetes may also cause neuropathy. It starts with the weakening of the back legs of the canine and may progressively become worse. Perhaps the most dangerous of all though is diabetic ketoacidosis. High hyperglycaemia left untreated for too long will cause the breakdown of vital organs. Watch your pet closely for symptoms to avoid complications such as those mentioned above.