Did you know that November is Pet Diabetes Month? While many people know that diabetes affects people, fewer are aware of how common diabetes is in pets. Pets, old and young, can become diabetic. Luckily, this disease can be prevented in many cases and managed if diagnosed early. Whether you have a puppy, kitty, rabbit, iguana, or bird, there are some ways you can help prevent your pet from becoming diabetic. What does your pet wish you knew to prevent them from becoming one of many pets that will be diagnosed as diabetic this year?

1. All Pets Are At-Risk for Diabetes

The strongest factor in whether or not a pet becomes diabetic is genetics. Some breeds and species have a greater disposition for becoming diabetic. If you own a Dachshund, Cocker Spaniel, Doberman, German Shepherd, Retriever, Lab, or Pomeranian, pay close attention to your dog for signs and symptoms of diabetes since these breeds are prone to diabetes. 

Other factors that can increase the risk factor of diabetes for pets includes:

  • Excess weight
  • Lack of exercise
  • Staying indoors, not going on walks
  • A history of pancreatitis or hyperthyroidism

While older pets tend to be more prone to diabetes, young pets can also develop the disease.

2. The Signs of Diabetes can be Subtle

The most common symptoms of diabetes include: extreme thirst and frequent urination, a drop in weight, decreased or increased appetite, milky or cloudy eyes, recurring infections (often skin infection or urinary infections), weakness, and lethargy.

If you notice your pet exhibiting these signs, you will want to schedule an appointment to bring your pet in. We can run blood tests to determine if your pet is or is not diabetic, and start your pet on a management plan.

3. Diabetes Can Be Prevented for Some Pets

Often feline diabetes can be cured before it begins. The first thing you will want to do is help your cat slim down and prevent your kitty from becoming overweight. You can do this by changing your cat’s food to a weight management formula and providing your kitty with more exercise opportunities. 

As for dogs, there are very few ways their owners can prevent them from developing this disease. One way to lower the risk of diabetes for dogs is a spay operation.

4. Early Diagnosis Matters

Depending on how far progressed the disease is, your pet can be sent home the same day after diabetes detection. Pets that have become quite ill and ketonic will likely need more involved care and a nights’ stay with us. 

When caught early, cats can go into remission after about 3 to 6 months.

5. Pets with Diabetes Can Live Long Healthy Lives

If we confirm that your pet is diabetic, we can begin your pet on an insulin routine. We’re also happy to teach you how to administer insulin for your pet. We can recommend a diet and feeding schedule that will work best for your pet’s needs and teach you how to use an insulin monitor at home. Additionally, we can walk you through what to look for in spotting an insulin overdose.

We’re here to help.

If you’re unsure of your pet’s health status, we are here to help. We can check and diagnose your pet before the holiday celebrations and before the arrival of your pet sitter. The more you know, the better prepared you can be, and the better your pet will feel. Don’t delay. Give us a call or schedule your appointment today.

Image credit: Radovan Zierik | Pixabay