Diabetes mellitus is a insidious condition that often manifests slowly. Left untreated in dogs, diabetes can lead to serious complications. It is therefore crucial to identify and treat diabetes in dogs in a timely manner.

Metabolism of Sugar

To understand what diabetes mellitus entails as a condition, it is important to know how sugar is metabolized as a vital source of energy in living beings, such as dogs. The regulation of sugar levels in the body is controlled by the hormones glucagon and insulin, which are produced in the pancreas.

Insulin facilitates the transport of glucose, the sugar dissolved in the blood, into cells through receptors, ensuring they receive sufficient energy. If the body lacks an adequate supply of glucose, glucagon converts stored sugar in the body, allowing cells to use it for energy.

What happens in diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus describes a disorder of sugar metabolism in the organism. Two forms of diabetes are distinguished: Type I and Type II. Type I diabetes is often a genetically predisposed, congenital condition where the pancreas does not produce sufficient insulin. As a result, glucose from the blood is not adequately transported into the cells, leaving them without sufficient energy. It is one of the most common metabolic disorders in dogs.

What triggers diabetes?

In Type II diabetes, enough insulin is still produced, but the insulin-producing cells are no longer fully functional, leading to insulin resistance. Type II diabetes is often acquired due to factors such as:

Which dog breeds are prone to diabetes?

Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to diabetes than others, including:

Due to insulin resistance or insulin deficiency, dogs experience hyperglycemia. Glucose from ingested food can no longer be released from the blood to the cells, accumulating excessively in the bloodstream. This can have serious consequences.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes in dogs

Symptoms of diabetes in dogs often appear gradually, making it challenging to notice any issues with the dog until some time has passed. The following symptoms are typically observed:

How is diabetes in dogs diagnosed?

If the above symptoms occur, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for further examination of the dog. The veterinarian can conduct several tests to quickly determine if the dog is suffering from diabetes. After a detailed history discussion and a general examination, the veterinarian will initially analyze the blood.

Special attention will be given to blood glucose levels. Elevated blood glucose may already indicate diabetes, but as it can also be elevated due to stress, it alone is not diagnostic.

For this reason, the veterinarian will likely also examine the fructosamine level. This is another sugar in the blood that reacts much slower than glucose and consequently provides more information about the long-term sugar metabolism in the body. If the fructosamine level is elevated, it makes diabetes mellitus very likely.

Further diagnostics in this context may involve testing the urine for glucose or ketones. Blood can also be examined for ketones. If all these tests yield positive results, diabetes mellitus is highly likely and should be treated as quickly as possible.

Treatment of Dogs with Diabetes

Once a diagnosis of diabetes in a dog is established, a challenging initial period begins, focusing on transitioning the dog to the best possible therapy. The preferred therapy involves administering an insulin preparation, aiming to stimulate as many receptors on the cells as possible to facilitate the uptake of glucose. Typically, insulin needs to be drawn into a fine syringe and injected under the dog’s skin twice a day.

Monitoring Blood Sugar

Especially in the early stages and throughout the treatment, regular monitoring of blood glucose is necessary. Several times a day, a drop of blood must be obtained from the ear, and the blood glucose concentration is measured using a glucose meter. Many owners keep a diary with the values of blood glucose concentration.

There are now other methods of measurement, such as a sensor sewn into the skin, which can measure glucose concentration in the animal in the first days after diagnosis without requiring a beep. This facilitates glucose monitoring until the diabetic dog is securely adjusted to the correct insulin dose. In consultation with the veterinarian, the amount of administered insulin is fine-tuned based on the blood glucose concentration. The goal is to avoid both over- and under-sugarization in the dog with insulin administration.

Prevent Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia in dogs is acutely life-threatening. It occurs with an overdose of insulin and requires immediate therapeutic measures from the veterinarian. The correct dose of administered insulin, therefore, requires reliable consultation with the veterinarian.

What can the dog eat? Switch to Specialized Food

In addition to insulin therapy, other measures can be supportive for the condition. Switching to a diet specifically tailored to diabetes and cautious weight reduction in overweight dogs can be helpful. Moderate exercise contributes to maintaining health.

Before changing your dog’s diet, it is important to consult your veterinarian. They can provide specific recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs. Dogs with diabetes should receive a controlled amount of carbohydrates to keep the blood sugar stable. Your veterinarian can help you determine the right amount of carbohydrates for your dog.

It is crucial that your pet receives regular meals at designated times. Feeding the dog at consistent times helps stabilize blood sugar and facilitates insulin administration. Snacks and treats should be included in your pet’s overall food intake to avoid overfeeding. Choose healthy snacks that contain little or no carbohydrates.

Every dog with diabetes is unique, so it is important to follow specific veterinary recommendations and conduct regular check-ups to ensure that your dog receives the best possible care.

Life Expectancy – How Long Can a Dog Live with Diabetes?

The life expectancy of a dog with diabetes depends on various factors, including the severity of the condition, the effectiveness of treatment, and the overall health of the animal. With proper treatment and care, many diabetic dogs can lead a normal and happy life. Prolonged diabetes may lead to clouding of the lens of the eye, known as cataracts.

Important Note: Unlike diabetes mellitus in cats, diabetes in dogs is mostly incurable and requires lifelong, consistent therapy and careful monitoring of the dog. Well-managed diabetes in dogs does not significantly limit their life expectancy or quality of life.

What happens if diabetes mellitus is left untreated?

Untreated diabetes in dogs can have severe consequences. The high glucose levels in the blood damage tissues and organs, such as the kidneys or eyes. Circulation disorders are also common findings in diabetes, as well as poorly healing wounds.

The glucose-rich urine excreted through the kidneys provides an excellent nutrient medium for bacteria, leading to the rapid development of urinary tract infections. Cells also lack the essential energy they need, causing the dog to become weak and lose muscle mass. In the worst case, the dog becomes so weak, and the entire metabolism is so disrupted by glucose that it falls into a condition known as diabetic coma, from which many diabetic dogs recover with difficulty or not at all.

Even though therapy and monitoring of a dog with diabetes may seem laborious and demanding, only with adequate treatment can the dog still lead a long, happy life.

Prevention – How Can Diabetes Be Prevented?

The causes of diabetes in dogs are diverse. In unspayed female dogs, the hormone progesterone can predispose them to diabetes. There are some measures that dog owners can take to reduce the risk of the disease. It is important to note that diabetes in dogs cannot always be prevented by preventive measures, as genetic factors may play a role.

Weight Control:

Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes in dogs. A healthy diet and sufficient physical activity can help control your pet’s weight and reduce the risk of diabetes.

Balanced Diet:

A balanced and healthy diet is essential to reduce the risk of diabetes in your pet. Avoid excessive intake of carbohydrates and ensure that your dog’s diet consists of high-quality proteins and fibers.

Regular Exercise:

Regular physical activity can help control your dog’s weight and improve metabolism. Take regular walks, play with your dog, and provide ample opportunities for exercise.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups:

Regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office can help detect and treat diabetes early. Your veterinarian can check your dog’s blood sugar levels and identify other signs of diabetes.

Consider Genetic Predisposition:

Certain dog breeds have a higher risk of developing diabetes due to genetic predisposition. If your dog belongs to one of these breeds, pay special attention to a healthy lifestyle and undergo regular veterinary check-ups.

If you have concerns or notice signs of diabetes in your dog, consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder where sugar cannot be properly absorbed into cells. After a confirmed diagnosis, lifelong and consistent therapy using insulin is usually necessary. Well-managed diabetes allows the dog to live many more enjoyable years.