Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disease in dogs and cats, occurring in about 1 of every 300 patients. In dogs, females are affected twice as often as males, and incidence appears to be increased in certain small breeds such as Miniature Poodles, Dachshunds, Schnauzers, Cairn Terriers, and Beagles, but any breed can be affected. Meanwhile, Dr. Allison O’Kell, DVM, MS, DACVIM, explained that there are two types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes, or insulin-deficiency diabetes, is the most common type of diabetes in dogs. It occurs when the cells in the pancreas that create insulin are destroyed. Dogs with this type of diabetes require daily shots to restore the missing insulin.

Type 2 diabetes, or insulin-resistance diabetes, develops when other hormones in the body prevent insulin from operating correctly. These problematic hormones can be produced by excess body fat, which is why older and overweight individuals are at higher risk of developing this type of diabetes.

What are the causes of diabetes?

• In many cases of diabetes, genetics likely play a role in developing such condition.
• Increased hormone levels (progesterone, growth hormone and cortisol) can lead to glucose intolerance.
• Chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) can destroy the insulin-producing beta cells and lead to diabetes.
• Cushing’s disease is another type of endocrine disorder that increases the body’s cortisol, which makes it harder to regulate diabetic dogs. Veterinarians commonly test for Cushing’s disease in newly diagnosed or difficult diabetic patients.
• Being overweight or taking a high-fat diet can increase the risk of your dog developing diabetes.

What are the signs you should look for?

• Excessive thirst. You may notice your dog drinking repeatedly and empty the water bowl more than usual.
• Increased urination. The dog may ask to go outside frequently because of increased urination. This happens because their body is trying to get rid of excess sugar by sending it out through urine, along with water that bonds to the sugar.
• Weight loss. Although you already gave them their usual portions of food, you may still notice that your dog is losing weight. This is because the dog is having difficulty converting nutrients from its food.
• Increased appetite. The dog can be frequently asking for food because their body’s cells aren’t getting all the glucose they need, despite eating a normal portion of meals.

Other advanced signs may include loss of appetite, lack of energy, depressed attitude, or vomiting.

How should you take care of your diabetic dogs? 

• A high-fiber diet and daily exercise is strongly recommended. Consult your veterinarian about an appropriate exercise program for your pet, considering their weight, overall health, and age.
• Pet owners should consider spaying female dogs diagnosed with diabetes.
• Regularly check your pet’s blood and urine glucose levels at home.
• Watch for the signs of an insulin overdose, which can include weakness, tremors or seizures, and loss of appetite.

With proper veterinary care and personal management of pet owners, diabetic dogs can live long and attain a healthy life. If you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior or weight or if you ever feel your dog is at risk for developing diabetes, it is always best to consult your veterinarian. Remember, the only thing that we want is their love and sweetness, not diabetes!