Canine Diabetes

By Geraldine Dimarco


One out of ten dogs suffers from canine diabetes. What makes it dangerous is that its symptoms are not always noticeable yet its adverse effects are irreversibly damaging the dog's organs and internal systems. This sickness is gradual in its progression, but definite in the havoc it is creating. Diabetes must be treated as soon as possible or else will prove fatal to the dog.

Some breeds are more susceptible to diabetes and will manifest when the animal is around seven to nine years of age. When diabetes is diagnosed in its advanced stages, there are few options, if any that will help your pet cope with this sickness. Here are some symptoms of dog diabetes you need to watch out for.

1. Extreme thirst and urination. When a canine has diabetes, he is unable to process glucose properly. Because of the overproduction of glucose in his system, the dog will attempt to remedy this by urinating more frequently than normal. This in turn causes him to be dehydrated and he will become thirstier. He will also discharge colorless and overly runny urine. Take care not to confuse this with incontinence or a simple bladder infection.

2. Fatigue. If your usually active dog is easily tired without any clear cause - it is indicative of something internally wrong with him. It is important that you are able to notice sometimes imperceptible and seemingly harmless behavioral changes that might actually need medical attention.

3. Considerable weight gain. Insulin deficiency, as caused by diabetes renders the dog unable to burn sugar adequately. A lack of energy and an increase in body weight is the natural outcome. If you notice your pet becoming fat without knowing any particular reason why he is - it is a sign that something is wrong with how he processes his food and a check-up is advised.

4. Unexplained weight loss. A dog suffering from diabetes will not be able to gain enough energy from food so he will instead burn stored fat. The outcome of this is weight loss and an increase in ketone levels. This is a common complication of diabetes and can be treated with an appropriate and nutritional diet.

The primary cause of diabetes is simply because they were born with it. Do have your puppy and his parents' medical history checked to see if your pet is likely to contract diabetes. However, there are some external factors that may contribute to your dog's bad health as well. Infections like Cushing's disease may activate insulin production thus initiating canine diabetes.

It is of vital importance that you remember and take note of any changes in your dog. Symptoms of dog diabetes will manifest and when they do, be sure to take them to your vet as soon as you are able. Diabetes, sometimes lead to canine death but when it is discovered early on will not prove to be terminal. Maintain regular vet appointments to ensure your pet's optimal health.




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