Recognizing & Understanding Diabetes in Dogs

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism. It is a disease characterized by persistent hyperglycemia -- that is, high blood sugar levels. It is considered a metabolic disease that requires medical diagnosis, treatment and permanent lifestyle changes. This applies to both humans and animals affected by the disease.

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Blood sugar levels are controlled by insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, specifically, its beta cells. Insulin regulates the body's ability to use and store glucose, which circulates in the blood and is available as a source of energy to all cells.

Without insulin, glucose cannot enter the cell. As a result, the "starved" cells signal the body to use stored fat and protein as energy sources. A diabetic dog, as a result, might overeat in its attempt to find the extra energy it needs. Unfortunately, the food is never processed efficiently, so while the dog is eating more, he will likely be losing weight.

The body eliminates excess blood glucose by filtering it through the kidneys and passing it into the urine. Water must be used to flush this excess glucose out of the body, thus the excessive urine volume in a diabetic. And, since so much water is expended flushing this excess glucose out of the body, the animal is thirsty and drinks a lot.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes three main forms of diabetes:

* Type I: which is characterized by decreased insulin production by the pancreatic beta cells, and is always insulin dependent
* Type II: which is characterized by decreased responsiveness of the body's cells to insulin or improperly functioning beta cells, and may or may not be insulin dependent
* Gestational: which occurs during pregnancy, and, like Type 2, is due to insulin resistance by tissues

Most dogs, whether they develop Type I or Type II diabetes, have the insulin-dependent variety.

Diabetes is a treatable but chronic condition, and its primary health risks are its associated long-term complications, which include:

* cardiovascular disease (risk is doubled in diabetics)
* chronic renal failure (it is the main cause for dialysis for adults)
* retinal damage (which leads to blindness)
* nerve damage
* erectile dysfunction
* gangrene (with risk of amputation of toes, feet and legs)

The insulin deficiency creates a cyclical hardship of the body's inner workings, which results in the typical outward symptoms:

* Excessive urination (polyuria)
* Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
* Excessive appetite (polyphagia)
* Weight loss
* Lethargy

As the disease progresses, additional symptoms may include:

* Anorexia (loss of appetite)
* Depression
* Vomiting

In diabetic dogs, cataract development is rapid. Sadly, as a result, the first signal of diabetes to his owner may be his sudden blindness.

Diabetes occurs in one out of every 400 - 500 dogs, usually between the ages of seven and nine. Unspayed female dogs tend to be more prone to the disease. Some breeds may also have a genetic disposition, specifically:

* Keeshonds
* Pulis
* Miniature Pinschers
* Cairn Terriers
* Poodles
* Dachsunds
* Miniature Schnauzers
* Beagles

A major risk factor for developing Type II diabetes in dogs (not unlike humans) is obesity. This is definitely a major reason to keep your pet's weight in check.

Other causes include:

* Genetic predisposition
* Infectious viral diseases
* Pancreatitis
* Prescribed drugs (steroids and progestagens)