Diabetes can affect pets of any age. It occurs when, like humans, they have high blood sugar levels due to their bodies not being able to produce enough insulin or not responding to it. Glucose cannot be used correctly in a animal’s body when they can’t correctly use insulin or produce an adequate amount of it.
With November being Diabetes in Pets month, want to highlight the symptoms and treatment options for pets with diabetes.
So, what are the symptoms? Typically, animals can demonstrate the following symptoms with suffering from diabetes:
-Frequent urination
-Larger appetite than usual but still losing weight
-Cloudy eyes and worsening vision
-Dull skin and coat
-Fatigue and loss of interest in activities
-Stiff and weaker than normal
What are the treatment options available if you pet is diagnosed? Usually treatment involves insulin, often twice daily (on a full stomach). A consistent and moderate exercise routine can help manage glucose levels as well as a healthy diet including protein, fiber and complex carbs.
Diabetes in pets is a manageable disease so early detection is ideal to get their bodies back on track.
