Understanding Pet Diabetes with Molesey Vets
November 28, 2024
November is recognised as Pet Diabetes Month, a time to reflect on the importance of raising awareness about this life-changing condition. In this article, our experienced veterinary surgeons at Molesey Vets are helping pet owners in Surrey understand what pet diabetes is and what they need to be aware of. If you suspect your pet may be diabetic, book a diabetes check at our vet practice in East Molesey as soon as possible.
The UK’s leading veterinary charity, The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) reported that as many as 1 in 300 dogs and 1 in 200 cats in the UK may be suffering from diabetes. Other pets can develop diabetes too, keep reading for more on this.
What is diabetes in pets?
Diabetes in pets is a metabolic disorder where the body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar. Insulin helps convert sugar from food into energy. When a pet has diabetes, either not enough insulin is produced, or the body attacks the insulin-producing cells. This leads to dangerously high blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia), which can cause serious health issues. In some cases, diabetes may develop after conditions like pancreatitis, which can damage insulin production.
Our vets explain that in a healthy pet, sugars from food are absorbed into the bloodstream and provide energy to cells throughout the body, such as muscles and the brain. Insulin is essential for moving sugar from the blood into these cells. In diabetic pets, where there isn’t enough insulin, the sugar remains in the blood, causing dangerously high blood sugar levels while the cells are deprived of the energy they need.
Which pets can get diabetes and what causes it?
Our team at Molesey Vets, share that cats and dogs are the most common pet species that develop diabetes. Although rarer, rabbits, guinea pigs, degus and other small pets can develop diabetes too. Risk factors include being overweight/obese, breed, genetics, and age. Unneutered female dogs are also more likely to develop diabetes. Some health conditions can also sometimes cause diabetes, including pancreatitis, Cushing’s disease, hyperthyroidism, and chronic infections. Ferrets can also suffer from insulinoma, a type of pancreatic tumour that affects insulin production, leading to similar symptoms as diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetes in pets to look out for
Early detection of diabetes is crucial so our vets in East Molesey are urging pet owners to keep an eye out for the following signs:
- Increased thirst
- Increased appetite
- Frequent urination
- Weight loss
- Low energy
- Vomiting (alongside other diabetic symptoms)
Call our vet practice in East Molesey on 0208 979 1384 if you notice any of the signs listed above.
Read our article on Tech That is Helping Owners Manage Pet Diabetes
Diabetic complications
Diabetes in pets can lead to several complications if not managed properly, making regular monitoring and veterinary care crucial for prevention:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by a buildup of ketones in the body when cells can’t use sugar for energy. Symptoms of DKA include vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and collapse – call us on 0208 979 1384.
- Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): Pets receiving insulin treatment may experience dangerously low blood sugar if doses aren’t properly managed, leading to confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, death. Too much exercise or not enough food can also cause a ‘hypo’. This is an emergency – call Molesey Vets on 0208 979 1384 if your pet seems lethargic, wobbly, and confused.
- Cataracts & Blindness: Especially common in dogs, cataracts can form due to high blood sugar levels, leading to blindness.
- Neuropathy: Cats with poorly managed diabetes can develop diabetic neuropathy, causing weakness in the hind legs, difficulty walking, or even paralysis.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): High blood sugar levels can encourage bacterial growth in the urinary tract, making pets more prone to infections.
- Liver Disease: Diabetes can increase the risk of liver issues, such as fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis), especially in cats.
- Poor Wound Healing: Diabetic pets may have reduced ability to heal from cuts, wounds, or infections due to compromised blood flow and immune response.
Can diabetes in pets be prevented?
Pet diabetes can often be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Providing nutritious food suitable for your pet’s age and activity level is essential, along with scheduling routine veterinary check-ups at our vet practice in East Molesey for early detection of health issues. Additionally, neutering can lower the risk, especially in female dogs.
What does pet diabetes mean for owners?
A diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but with proper management, your pet can still enjoy a good quality of life, something our experienced team at Molesey Vets are here to help with. The condition is typically managed through insulin therapy, dietary and weight control, a daily routine to keep blood sugars steady, and regular vet check-ups. Our vets will guide you through the process, helping you manage blood sugar levels and monitor for the potential complications listed above.
Read our article on Tech That is Helping Owners Manage Pet Diabetes
Book a pet diabetes check now at our vet practice in East Molesey for peace of mind and to ensure your pet’s health is managed effectively.
