Pets get human diseases too and they need to be highlighted: November is Pet Diabetes Month

#SP By now, most people probably know that pets can get most of the illnesses that humans can get. But there is still a great deal of ignorance about how common some of these illnesses can be, and about how much can be done to help affected animals. That’s why awareness months are held from time to time; and that’s why November has been selected to be Pet Diabetes Awareness month. There’s a push on to make sure that pet owners know about diabetes, so that if their pets are affected, they’ll be more likely to be taken to the vet and given the life saving treatment they need.

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes mellitus, the medical name for diabetes, is a disease caused by a lack of insulin that affects the level of glucose, or sugar in your dog or cat’s blood. The glucose comes from the food that your pet eats. The food is broken down into very small components by the digestive system so that the body can use it for energy. Glucose is one of these components, and an important source of energy. Glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the bloodstream where it travels to cells throughout the body. Insulin is required for the cells to absorb glucose. Insulin is produced by the pancreas in response to the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. Healthy pets produce insulin easily, but pets with diabetes don’t. In canine and feline diabetes, unused glucose builds up in the bloodstream.

Is diabetes in pets the same as in humans?

The two conditions are very similar. In fact, vets use medication, equipment and monitoring systems that are similar to those used for diabetic people.

How common is diabetes in dogs and cats?

Diabetes is reported to affect anywhere between 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 dogs and cats. And experts believe that this disease is on the rise. That’s why it’s so important that people know about it, so that they can spot the signs if their own pet is affected.

Can diabetes lead to other health problems?

Yes. Dogs and cats with diabetes can develop other health problems, usually after living with diabetes for a year or more. For dogs, the most common complication of diabetes is cataract formation. Persistently high blood glucose levels make the lens of the eye become opaque, causing blindness. For cats, weakness of the hind legs is a common complication. Persistently high blood glucose levels may damage nerves, causing weakness and muscle wasting. For both dogs and cats, avoiding high blood glucose levels should help prevent or delay these complications. For this reason, early diagnosis of diabetes in your dog or cat is especially important.

Will diabetes affect my dog or cat’s life expectancy?

Today, with effective treatment and monitoring, a diabetic dog or cat should have the same life expectancy as a non-diabetic dog or cat. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help diabetic pets maintain a good quality of life.

How can I find out more about pet diabetes?

During November, I plan to post a series of short articles explaining a bit more about pet diabetes, in short, easily digestible chunks. So come back here later in the month to find out more.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Please note that I am unable to answer veterinary questions in comments. If you have questions or concerns about your pet's health it is always better to contact your vet.

Privacy | Terms and Conditions