Diabetes....
It can be a shock to learn that your pet has diabetes. Fortunately,
diabetes in pets can be managed very successfully - with insulin, exercise and diet.
Signs of diabetes can include: Excessive thirst, excessive urination, weight
loss in spite of good appetitve, cloudy eyes and dull hair coat.
Your veterinarian can make a diagnosis of diabetes testing your pet's blood and
urine. Next, it is important that a physical exam is performed on your pet to determine if he is suffering from
any other related conditions, because some disease can make it more difficult to treat diabetes.
In the beginning of treatment, your veterinarian will perform what is referred
to as a "glucose curve". This includes taking several blood samples during the day to determine the level of insulin
your pet will need to become regulated. This make take several days to weeks to find the most effective dose for your
pet.
Since diabetes is a relatively easy disease to live with, small changes in your
pet's routine will pay off in the long run. You may need to:
*Change the times, amounts and brand of food you feed your pet.
*Eliminate treats from your pet's diet.
*Monitor your pet's exercise, keeping it regular and routine.
*Monitor your pet's blood and urine glucose.
The most common side effect when dealing with diabetic pets on insulin is LOW
BLOOD SUGAR (hypoglycemia). When left untreated, it can be fatal. Causes for hypoglycemia
can be:
*Giving too much insulin
*Missing a meal
*Change in food, diet or amount fed
*Increase in exercise
*Infection or illness
*Change in weight - therefore changing the amount of insulin needed
*Other diseases
*Interaction with other medications - including herbs
Signs of LOW BLOOD SUGAR (hypoglycemia):
*Weakness
*Depression
*Behavioral changes
*Anxiety
*Seziures
*Coma
*Muscle twitching
*Death
If hypoglycemia occurs:
If your dog is conscious:
**Rub a tablespoon of corn syrup on your pet's gums
*When your pet is able to swallow, feed a regular meal
**CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN
If your pet is unconscious or seizuring:
THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY! Contact your veterinarian immediately!
While it is important to be aware of the side effects and problems associated
with diabetes, it is also important to know that this diagnosis is not a death sentence. Pet's regulated on insulin
can lead healthy, happy, long lives Just ask ole Budroe Brown! He's living proof of what a little dedication and
love can do for a diabetic pet!
