The diabetes epidemic is a problem in humans, but did you know that this insidious set of metabolic diseases is also a problem in the canine community? As in humans, diabetes mellitus is a result of a dog’s inadequate response to or total lack of the hormone called insulin. Other than that, though, it appears the diseases are slightly different in dogs than in humans.
Humans are susceptible to three different types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. In humans, Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent form of the disease. In dogs, it is generally thought that Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes is the most common. This assumption is under scrutiny, however, because there are currently no globally accepted definitions of canine diabetes.
Many experts, including the United Kingdom’s Royal Veterinary College, have come to recognize only two kinds of dog diabetes. There is the canine insulin-resistant type (IRD) and the canine insulin-deficient type (IDD), and neither of these forms of diabetes matches human diabetes precisely.
It’s impossible to prevent diabetes. One type, the kind that’s found in juvenile dogs, is inherited. But plenty of exercise and nutritious, wholesome dog food such as the CANIDAE Grain Free Pure formulas, can help prevent the onset of diabetes in adult dogs.
Just like people, dogs can suffer from a variety of diseases. Some are more severe than others. Since our pets can’t tell us when they don’t feel well, it’s up to us to be able to see when there’s a change in their routine, eating and drinking habits, or behavior. Canine diabetes is a common disease in dogs that can be controlled if caught in the early stages.
Insulin is produced in the pancreas and is a hormone that regulates blood glucose. Canine diabetes results from the destruction of cells called beta pancreatic cells. These cells are responsible for the secretion of insulin. If they are destroyed, the dog is no longer able to produce insulin, which will then create hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose levels).
There are four main symptoms related to canine diabetes: drinking a lot of water, excessive urination, weight loss, and an increase in appetite even though the dog keeps losing weight. A dog with diabetes may develop cataracts even before other symptoms are noticed, but not always. They may also have problems with infections that keep coming back.
German Shepherds, Poodles, Beagles and Schnauzers are more susceptible to canine diabetes than other breeds. Females, especially obese ones, seem to be affected more than males, and larger dogs have a greater chance than smaller dogs of developing this disease. However, any sex, size or age of dogs can develop diabetes. Canine diabetes doesn’t usually begin to show up until the dog becomes older, but younger dogs can develop this hereditary disease. Cats can also develop diabetes, and have the same symptoms as dogs.
There are two types of this autoimmune disease, but the more serious one that requires daily insulin is called Diabetes Mellitus. It’s important to catch this form of diabetes in the early stages in order to control the disease and stabilize your dog with insulin shots, proper diet and adequate exercise. Regular monitoring by your vet also helps keep canine diabetes in check.
A simple blood sugar test can determine if your dog has diabetes. A vet can perform this test right in his office. By understanding symptoms associated with canine diabetes and getting the dog to your vet when you begin to notice any of the symptoms, your dog has a good chance of living a full and healthy life.
My mom had two dogs that developed diabetes at different times. Mom’s first dog, an American Eskimo named Heidi, enjoyed a long, healthy life even with diabetes. Tony, also an American Eskimo, had a harder time dealing with it. He was a young dog when he developed this disease and had underlying health issues due to under nourishment and poor living conditions as a puppy, before Mom got him. His diabetes brought all his other health problems to the surface. Dogs are like us, and lack of exercise, poor diet and not enough food early in life can make a difference as they grow older. If possible, knowing your dog’s family history can give you insight into hereditary diseases like diabetes, that could develop as they grow older.
Helping your dog stay fit and knowing what to look for can help them better handle canine diabetes if they should develop it. Most dogs can live long, healthy lives when it’s caught early. If you suspect your pet may have developed diabetes, don’t hesitate to talk with your vet. He can quickly determine if your dog has diabetes and can answer any questions you may have. Canine diabetes does require proper diet and exercise, and the dog may need regular insulin shots, but with proper care, your pet can lead a normal life. If you notice even one of the four symptoms, it’s a good idea to have your dog checked out by your vet as soon as possible.
The personal opinions and/or use of trade, corporate or brand names, is for information and convenience only. Such use does not constitute an endorsement by CANIDAE® All Natural Pet Foods of any product or service. Opinions are those of the individual authors and not necessarily of CANIDAE® All Natural Pet Foods.
The personal opinions and/or use of trade, firm, corporation or brand names, in this blog is for the information and convenience of the reader. Such use does not constitute an official endorsement or approval by CANIDAE® Natural Pet Food Company of any product or service to the exclusion of others that may be suitable. All opinions in this blog are those of the individual authors and not necessarily of CANIDAE® Natural Pet Food Company.