As an end-of-life care veterinarian, Dr. Lisa Walling considers both pet and owner to be her patients. She makes sure animals are as comfortable as possible in their final days and helps humans through the difficult decision of knowing when it's time to say good-bye. (AP Video: Mary Conlon)
November is Pet Diabetes Awareness Month, making now an ideal time to talk about a condition affecting not only humans but also our pets. While pet diabetes has some similarities to human diabetes, it brings unique challenges. The good news? With early detection and proper care, diabetic pets can live healthy, happy lives.
Diabetes in dogs and cats generally stems from an inability to produce or use insulin effectively. This leads to elevated blood glucose levels that can cause significant health issues over time. In dogs, diabetes often resembles Type 1 diabetes in humans, meaning they require insulin injections to manage their blood sugar. Cats, however, usually develop a form similar to Type 2 diabetes, where cells are less responsive to insulin.
While some risk factors for diabetes in pets are genetic, many aspects are within our control. Keeping pets at a healthy weight is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of diabetes. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and monitoring treats can help maintain optimal body weight, especially for breeds predisposed to the condition.
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Signs of diabetes in pets can be subtle at first, but catching them early can help you avoid complications, said Nicole Azene, veterinarian and owner of Onalaska Animal Hospital.
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"Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss despite a strong appetite, and lethargy. Cats might also develop unkempt fur or appear more tired than usual."
If you see these signs, it's best to consult your veterinarian.
"Without treatment, diabetes can lead to severe complications, such as vision loss, nerve damage, and life-threatening conditions like ketoacidosis," added Azene.
Managing diabetes in pets requires a mix of consistent routine, monitoring, and veterinary guidance. Once diagnosed, your pet may need a specialized diet to help regulate blood sugar, regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight, and possibly daily insulin injections. Routine blood glucose checks, at home and through periodic vet visits, help keep levels stable and can let you know when adjustments are needed.
In a breakthrough for newly diagnosed diabetic cats, BexaCat -- a once-daily tablet -- can replace the need for twice-daily insulin injections. The tablet offers a more convenient, less invasive approach to management. BexaCat cannot be used in cats already receiving insulin, but it's a fantastic option for new cases, according to Azene.
"Whatever approach your pet needs, consistency is key. Feeding, exercise, and medication schedules should remain as regular as possible to avoid sudden blood sugar changes," said Azene. "With consistent care, diabetic pets can lead comfortable, active lives, and the management routine for you becomes easier as you and your pet adjust and develop new habits."
At the shelter, we currently have two wonderful cats with diabetes searching for their forever homes. Managing the condition has never been easier, and you don't have to let it stop you from welcoming a diabetic pet into your family. These cats deserve a chance to be loved and cared for, and they'll return the same to you.
Heather Drievold is Executive Director of the Coulee Region Humane Society. She can be reached at [email protected].
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