our advice: ASK DR. CATE
Vet Rap by
Dr. Ryan Cate
Identifying and Treating
Diabetes in your Pets
Dr. Cate, can dogs and cats become diabetic? If so,
what signs/symptoms should I be looking for?
Dogs and cats can absolutely become diabetic; in
fact, diabetes is a very common condition for small
animals. Many owners are unaware of the symp-
toms to look for while their pet is in the early stages
of this condition. Knowing how to identify and
treat diabetes is just as important in your pets as in
humans.
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Excessive water drinking
Urinating more frequently and in larger amounts
An increase or decrease in appetite
Weight loss
Chronic skin or urinary infections
Cloudy eyes
What is diabetes in small animals?
Diabetes in small animals is very similar to diabetes
in humans. This is a condition which occurs when
the body has difficulties processing glucose effec-
tively. Glucose is a type of sugar and what cells use
as their main source of energy. In turn, the pancreas
produces insulin, which is the main controller of
glucose levels in the blood. Insulin is the hormone
which transfers glucose from the bloodstream to the
cells. When the body is unable to process insulin or
there is a lack thereof, this causes hyperglycemia.
When blood glucose gets exceedingly high, glucose
begins to overflow into the urine along with large
volumes of water. This condition is referred to as
glucosuria, and is the reason for excessive drinking
and urination in diabetic pets. Glucose deficiency in
the body’s cells leads to metabolic starvation, which
causes fat and muscle tissue to be broken down by
the liver into sugar. How to treat diabetes:
Although you may be able to identify the signs of
diabetes, only your veterinarian can confirm it by
finding hyperglycemia and glucosuria. Your veteri-
narian may also choose to run a urine culture to
rule out a urinary infection or a blood test to assure
there are no additional conditions needing treat-
ment. Once your veterinarian is sure it is diabetes,
they will prescribe insulin for your pet. Insulin must
be administered as an injection; a veterinarian or
veterinarian technician will show you how to effec-
tively and easily administer the injections to make it
a quick and painless process for both you and your
pet. In addition to insulin, your veterinarian will
most likely suggest a change in diet and daily exer-
cise. The correct feeding regimen and living a more
active lifestyle often makes a huge difference in the
well-being of your pet. In order to treat your pet
successfully, you should take them for occasional
trips to the veterinarian and assure their insulin is at
the correct dosage and nothing has changed with
their condition.
Identifying the signs:
Early diagnosis of diabetes is highly beneficial;
noticing the symptoms while still in the early stages
can help the length and quality of their lives. The
best option if you suspect your pet is showing
signs of diabetes is to take them for a visit to your
veterinarian. Your veterinarian can run diagnostics
and identify the severity of your pet’s condition.
However, some common symptoms owners can
look for in dogs and cats include: Quality of life for a diabetic pet:
Although a diabetic pet requires a special diet,
exercise plan and often insulin injections, these
are all very manageable tasks. Your veterinarian
can discuss the best treatment and what works for
you and your pet specifically. If monitored closely
and cared for accurately, your pet can live a very
happy and healthy life. If you notice a difference in
your pet’s weight, behavior or eating habits, please
contact your veterinarian.