Diabetes in Pets
Diabetes isn't just a disease that occurs in humans. Your dog or cat can get diabetes, too. Diabetes is just as serious an illness in pets as it is in people, and if your cat or dog has this condition, prompt and regular medical treatment is a must to keep the symptoms under control. The good news is that pet diabetes can be managed. Here at Tierrasanta Veterinary Hospital, our San Diego veterinarians can help you keep your pet's diabetes under control so that your pet can enjoy a happy, healthy, and normal life with you.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the body either does not produce or cannot properly use a hormone called insulin. Insulin is what allows sugar in the blood to be delivered to the cells of the body. Without a healthy insulin response, a person or animal with diabetes cannot fuel their cells, and glucose starts to build up in the blood. If blood glucose gets too high, it can be fatal. This is why both people and pets with diabetes need to follow a careful health regimen to keep their blood glucose in a healthy range.
Could Your Pet Be at Risk for Diabetes?
Age can play a role in the development of diabetes in pets. Most dogs and cats that get diabetes are middle-aged or older. However, some younger pets do get diabetes, mainly due to genetic factors. Siamese cats are at increased risk for developing the disease, as are the following dog breeds:
- German shepherds
- Labrador retrievers
- Golden retrievers
- Doberman pinschers
- Dachshunds
- Toy poodles
- Terriers
- Cocker spaniels
Being overweight or obese also puts dogs and cats at increased risk of developing diabetes.
What Are the Warning Signs That Your Pet Needs Veterinary Care for Diabetes?
If your pet has diabetes, it's important to seek treatment at an animal hospital right away. Visit our veterinarians if your pet has any of the following symptoms:
- Excessive thirst and frequent urination
- Increased or decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Cloudy-looking eyes (in dogs, but not in cats)
- Frequent infections
Visit Our San Diego Animal Hospital to Have Your Pet Evaluated for Diabetes
If you think your pet might have diabetes, don't panic. Many cats and dogs live long and happy lives with this condition. When you make Tierrasanta Veterinary Hospital your partner in caring for your pet's diabetes, you can rest assured knowing that your furry friend is receiving the best care available in San Diego. If you think that your pet may need to be evaluated for diabetes, call our animal hospital today for an appointment at (858) 292-6116.
