If your dog has recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you may be feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or even scared. That’s a perfectly normal response! But please know that with proper treatment and consistency, most dogs with diabetes go back to acting like their normal, loveable selves. For National Pet Diabetes Month, Animal Medical Center of Kansas City, is looking to turn information about diabetes in dogs into empowerment. This blog will walk you through the basics of canine diabetes and how to keep your dog healthy for the long run.
What Exactly Is Canine Diabetes?
Diabetes in dogs occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t properly use it. Insulin is necessary in a dog’s body for regulating blood sugar levels. When it’s missing or ineffective, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy. Typically, once a pet develops diabetes, it will be a lifelong condition, but diabetes in dogs can be managed effectively with routine care.
Diabetes can come on gradually, so it’s good for pet owners to know the signs. Dogs with diabetes may exhibit:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Weight loss despite eating well
- Fatigue or low energy
- Cloudy eyes (a sign of cataracts)
Catching diabetes early will lead to fewer complications for your pet in most cases.
Treatment Options When a Dog Has Diabetes
Managing diabetes in dogs involves a combination of care strategies.
- Insulin Therapy: Most diabetic dogs will require insulin injections twice daily. The idea may seem intimidating, but most pet owners find that insulin injections become second nature with practice.
- Diet Management: Diet plays a huge role in controlling your dog’s blood sugar. A veterinarian will discuss dietary recommendations and, in some cases, may even suggest prescription food.
- Regular Exercise: Consistent, moderate physical activity supports your dog’s health.
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: Your dog’s glucose levels may be tracked through periodic “glucose curves” at a veterinary clinic or with at-home devices. Monitoring is useful for determining proper insulin doses as needed.
- Ongoing Vet Checkups: Expect more frequent wellness visits with a veterinarian during the initial adjustment period. Once your dog is stable, they’ll move to a maintenance schedule.
Long-Term Management for Diabetic Dogs
Living with a diabetic dog does mean embracing some new routines, but it’s very manageable.
- Stick to consistent feeding and insulin times.
- Avoid giving table scraps or treats unless it has been okayed by your vet.
- Watch for behavior changes or signs of low blood sugar.
- Keep detailed notes on appetite, mood, and bathroom habits to figure out baselines.
- Stay in close contact with your veterinary team.
If you have questions or concerns, contact your veterinarian for advice. They know the medical history of your pet and can give safe advice based on experience.
Testing for Dog Diabetes in Kansas City, MO
A diabetes diagnosis is the beginning of a new chapter in your dog’s life. You can give your pet the care they need to stay happy with the guidance of a veterinary team. Animal Medical Center of Kansas City has canine diabetes testing in Kansas City for dogs from Waldo, Brookside, and neighboring Missouri areas. Schedule a diabetes consultation for your dog at Animal Medical Center of Kansas City.
