A diagnosis of Diabetes can be scary for a pet parent, but thankfully, it’s a condition that can be managed with proper diet, exercise and medication. If your pet has recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you are not alone. Over the past 10 years, pets being diagnosed with diabetes has risen nearly 80%! 

Diabetes is a condition that affects both cats and dogs and is a chronic disorder that occurs when the body can’t produce enough insulin or when the body can’t utilize insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels in the body. Without enough insulin, the body cannot properly process glucose, leading to high levels of sugar in the blood.

Signs of diabetes in pets can include:

• Excessive water drinking
• Increased urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in appetite
• Cloudy eyes (especially in dogs)
• Chronic or recurring infections 
• Deteriorated coat 
• Vision loss
• Lethargy and loss of interest 

The treatment for diabetes in pets typically involves twice daily (every 12 hours) insulin injections, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. Pets with diabetes will need to have their blood sugar levels monitored regularly to ensure that their treatment plan is working effectively. As blood sugars are affected by calorie intake, it's very important that diabetic pets aren't given extra food or treats. It is also important for pet owners to work closely with their veterinarian to develop a personalized treatment plan for their pet. If unsure of how to give a pet an insulin shot, speak with your veterinarian or Professional Pet Care Specialist on the proper ways to give insulin shots and how to test a pet’s blood glucose levels. Many factors other than insulin can affect a pet’s blood glucose levels, and insulin may need adjusted depending on the current reading.

The most important factor in reducing the risk of diabetes is to keep pets at a healthy weight. While those puppy and kitten eyes can be tempting, overfeeding, feeding a poor diet or giving too many treats can lead to weight gain, diabetes risk and joint issues. A diabetic pet will often need a specialized diet. For dogs, this means quality proteins, fiber and complex carbohydrates. Cats will also need a high protein diet, but much lower carbohydrates. If unsure on what diet is best for your diabetic pet, speak with your veterinarian about your pet’s diet needs. 

Keeping a pet active can not only help with weight loss, which lowers the risk of diabetes, but it can also help keep glucose levels regulated. All pets should be getting daily exercise and play and exercise can be modified to a pet’s ability level and age.

While the initial diagnosis may come as a shock, diabetes is a highly manageable disease and with proper medication, exercise and diet, a pet can still lead a very happy life!