Diabetes mellitus is a disease that results from either a lack of insulin in the body or a resistance to the effects of insulin. This results in constant uncontrolled high levels of blood glucose. As with humans, this can cause a range of problems. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to a life-threatening condition called Diabetic Ketoacidosis. It’s therefore very important for owners to be able to recognise the symptoms of diabetes in dogs and cats as soon as possible. This way, veterinary advice and care can be sought quickly.
What are the Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs and Cats?
Signs of diabetes in dogs and cats can include the following:
Increased Thirst
You may notice that your pet is drinking far more than they normally do. They may take a long time at their water bowl and you might be having to fill it up more frequently.
Sometimes it can be helpful to measure the amount that your pet is drinking during a 24-hour period (in litres or mls). Record this and bring it along to your vet appointment.
Do not restrict your pet’s water at any time. Let them drink as much as they require until you can speak to your vet.
Excessive Urination
Diabetic dogs and cats will have to urinate more often and sometimes in larger volumes.
Some diabetic dogs may have some accidents in the house or you might notice them asking to go out more frequently. Dogs with diabetes might also seem to take longer to go to the toilet as they are usually passing an increased volume of urine.
Indoor-only cats may need their litter trays changed more often than usual or they may urinate outside of their litter tray. This symptom of diabetes can be harder to notice in cats that have outdoor access.
Increased Appetite
Diabetic pets will be hungry almost all of the time. They may frequently ask for more food or scavenge food items from counter tops and bins.
Weight Loss
Diabetic cats and dogs will lose weight quickly and noticeably, despite their increased appetite. This symptom of diabetes is mainly due to the ineffectiveness of insulin, preventing glucose from being used for normal bodily functions.
Lethargy
Another symptom of diabetes in dogs and cats and dogs is tiredness. Diabetic pets may often be lethargic due to the continued imbalances in their blood glucose. This may be more difficult to notice in older dogs or cats or those that are not very active.
The above symptoms are the most common signs of diabetes in cats and dogs. However, there can be some other less common ones that you should also look out for. These include:
Urinary Tract Infections
Diabetic cats and dogs are more prone to all kinds of infections as their immune system is compromised by the illness. Bladder infections are very common. The symptoms are very similar to other signs of diabetes such as urinating more frequently, taking longer to wee and having accidents in the house.
Reduced Appetite and Vomiting
If your pet’s diabetes is uncontrolled for a long period, they can become very ill. They may stop eating, begin vomiting and become very dehydrated and weak. If this happens they could be experiencing a ‘hypo’ episode of dangerously low blood sugar and/or a life-threatening metabolic imbalance called Diabetic Ketoacidosis. Seek veterinary advice immediately – do not delay.
What Should I do if I Spot Symptoms of Diabetes in My Pet?
If you suspect that your dog or cat might have diabetes, seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
Your vet will examine your pet and talk to you about any further tests required to confirm the diagnosis.
If the diagnosis is confirmed by your vet, they will discuss the treatment options and lifestyle changes that will be required for your diabetic pet. It may seem like a daunting and overwhelming task, but managing a diabetic dog or cat will soon become manageable with the help of your vet and the excellent resources available to help you. For more advice on the different ways to administer insulin, diabetic diets and how else you can manage your pet’s diabetes, read our blog, Supporting Dogs and Cats with Diabetes.
What Causes Diabetes in Dogs and Cats?
You may be wondering why pets might develop diabetes, and if there is anything you can do to reduce the risk for your cat or dog.
Genetics
Sometimes, a cat or dog’s body may not produce any insulin, or only produce ineffective insulin. This is usually due to a genetic problem; some breeds are genetically predisposed to diabetes.
In dogs, these breeds include: Beagles, Poodles, Dachshunds and Miniature Schnauzers.
Some breeds of cat that are predisposed to diabetes include: Burmese, Siamese and Abyssinian.
However, it is important to remember that any dog or cat, regardless of their breed, can develop diabetes.
Health Conditions
Alternatively, diabetes may be caused by conditions in the body that prevent insulin from working effectively. This could be due to a number of factors. For example, obesity or metabolic diseases such as Cushing’s Disease or Pancreatitis.
If you are at all worried please discuss your concerns with your vet.
Can Diabetes in Dogs and Cats be Prevented?
In most cases, there is little to nothing you can do that will prevent the disease. However, there are some factors that may help to decrease the likelihood of diabetes developing in your pet, or reduce the impact it has on them.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Just like in humans, obesity can increase the risk of your cat or dog developing diabetes. It’s therefore important to take your vet’s advice regarding portion sizes and type of diet. Human food and treats should be kept to a minimum or not fed to your pet at all.
You should always take your pet’s daily treat consumption into account and adjust their main meals accordingly.
Exercise
Healthy activity levels keep your pets in shape, fit and mentally stimulated. Try to find activities that you can do with your pet such as walking your dog or playing with them. For indoor-only cats, you could consider a cat wheel or games that encourage pouncing and chasing.
Visit the Vet Regularly
Regular vet appointments are essential to maintaining your cat or dog’s health. They offer an excellent opportunity to discuss your pet’s health, diet and weight and raise any concerns you might have. Regular appointments with your vet can help to ensure that issues are picked up on early so that they can be addressed as soon as possible.
Wrapping Up
Although there is no cure for diabetes, your pet can live a happy and normal life, provided you can care for them effectively. For advice on how to manage your cat or dog’s diabetes, including advice about medication and diet, take a look at our blog, Supporting Cats and Dogs with Diabetes.
Blog checked by Karin Volker, MRCSV
