Pets can get diabetes, just like humans. Although the cure for the disorder does not exist yet, managing it can be easy with the correct information. Pet diabetes is more common than many people think. If your pet has been diagnosed with diabetes, it's okay to feel dispirited. However, you are not alone. Statistics indicate that at least 1 dog in 100 will contract diabetes by age 12. For cats, at least 1 in 50 cats will develop diabetes at some point in its life.
At Central Virginia Veterinary Clinic in Louisa, VA, our veterinary team will diagnose diabetes in your pet. The earlier pet diabetes is diagnosed, the better the chances are of helping your animal friend manage the condition.
Causes of Diabetes in Pets
Diabetes in pets occurs when the body does not make or use insulin correctly. Insulin is produced in the pancreas, and the primary function is to use glucose in the blood to generate energy. When the body lacks insulin, the body utilizes other sources of energy, rather than glucose. The unused glucose in the blood leads to the accumulation of toxins detrimental to your pet's life.
Symptoms of Diabetes in Pets
If you notice any combination of the below symptoms, you should bring your pet to our veterinarian for an immediate diabetes checkup.
- Frequent urination
- Loss of appetite
- Inactivity/sleeping more than often
- Rapid loss of weight
- Excessive intake of water
- The pet coat appears to dry and dull
- Cloudy eyes, especially in dogs
- Recurrent infections
Since the symptoms above mimic other conditions, it's pivotal to see our veterinarian for proper diagnosis.
Risk Factors
Here are the factors likely to increase the chances of diabetes in pets:
- Age: Although the condition can show up at any age, it's more prevalent in middle-aged to senior pets.
- Gender: Female dogs that are not spayed have higher risks.
- Genetics: Diabetes can be hereditary.
- Other disorders: Some viral disorders are known to trigger pet diabetes.
Diagnosing and Treating Pet Diabetes
To determine whether or not your pet is suffering from diabetes, schedule an appointment with our vet. We will conduct various tests, including testing for extra glucose in urine and blood. Additionally, our veterinarian will run other diagnostic tests to rule out infections and other conditions that can complicate diabetes.
Treatment of diabetes includes administering artificial insulin through injections. Once our vet determines the appropriate insulin dose, diabetes becomes easily manageable.
Although it is permanent, diabetes does not have to impact your pet's quality of life.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Louisa, VA
At Central Virginia Veterinary Clinic, we encourage you to get your pet diagnosed as soon as you notice any of the symptoms of diabetes. That way, you can manage the disorder before it impacts the life of your beloved pet. Serving Louisa, VA, our team will answer any questions you have about managing diabetes in your pet. Call us today to schedule an appointment.