Here Are Signs Your Pup May Have Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that humans and their canine companions can develop. There are two types of diabetes in dogs, insulin deficiency diabetes and insulin resistance diabetes.

Insulin-deficiency diabetes is when the body isn’t making enough insulin. This type of diabetes will require daily shots of insulin and is the most common form in dogs. Insulin-resistance-diabetes is when the pancreas makes the insulin, but the body isn’t using it as it should. This form of diabetes is often seen in older or obese dogs. With either form, the cells in your dog’s body are not getting the fuel they need to work correctly.

So, the body breaks down fat and proteins for energy. Too much sugar in the bloodstream can damage organs, and the body needs insulin to get sugar out! Have you noticed your dog drinking more water? Is her appetite a little off and something is up with her weight? If your dog has packed on a few pounds and isn’t his usual happy self, it is time for a checkup at the vet.

Dr. Michel Selmer, DVM, CTCVMP aka, The Caring Vet, said that increased thirst, urination, appetite, along with dehydration, weight loss, and the development of cataracts are a few things to be on the lookout for. These symptoms are red flags for your dog, and you should contact your veterinarian. Other diseases like urinary, bladder, and kidney conditions or Cushing’s disease (a hormone-related disorder) can also cause your dog to be thirsty. So, having excessive thirst is a big deal.

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