Dog Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes in dogs: Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, and Type 2 diabetes, a metabolic disorder in which the body does not respond properly to insulin.

• Excessive thirst (Polydipsia) - Dogs with diabetes may drink more water than usual as a result of increased blood sugar levels.
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• Frequent urination (Polyuria) - Due to the excess intake of water, dogs with diabetes will urinate more frequently.
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• Increased appetite (Polyphagia) - Despite eating more, diabetic dogs may lose weight or have difficulty gaining weight.
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• Weight loss - Dogs with diabetes may experience unexplained weight loss, despite having an increased appetite.
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• Lethargy and weakness - Diabetic dogs may appear tired, weak, and lack energy.
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• Cloudy eyes - The development of cataracts is common in diabetic dogs and can lead to cloudy or bluish-looking eyes.
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• Recurrent infections - Dogs with diabetes may be more susceptible to infections, such as urinary tract infections or skin infections.
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• Sweet-smelling breath - Some owners report a sweet or fruity smell to their dog's breath, which can be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, a severe complication of diabetes.

The exact causes of diabetes in dogs are not always clear, but several factors may contribute to its development, such as;

Genetics

Obesity

Age

Pancreatitis

Autoimmune factors.

Treating diabetes in dogs typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical management. Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin injections, while Type 2 diabetes can be treated with a combination of insulin injections, diet, and exercise.

Most diabetic dogs require their Blood Glucose Levels monitored, as well as Insulin Injections, to regulate their blood sugar levels . Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate insulin type, dosage, and administration schedule based on your dog's needs.

Dietary Management and Regular Exercise are also crucial for diabetic dogs. Your veterinarian might recommend a specific diabetic dog food or a home-cooked diet low in carbohydrates and high in fibre and protein. 

At Pet Drugs Online, we provide a veterinary-approved service where your dog can be prescribed the exact amount of insulin they need and have it delivered it quickly to your front door at the perfect storage temperature. Not only this, but we also provide syringes and needles for dogs which will be the perfect match for the insulin prescription.

Ensure you have a full veterinary diagnosis before determining your dog needs diabetes treatment. 

When giving treats to a diabetic dog, it's crucial to choose options that won't significantly impact their blood sugar levels. Some suitable treat options are; 

• Carrots soaked in bone broth and frozen
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• Lean Proteins - Place in a KONG or a snuffle mat to long out treat time
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• Freeze-dried Meat Treats
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• Green Beans
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• Home-baked, low-carb treats - Try this pumpkin treat recipe!
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Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new treats or changes to your diabetic dog's diet to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your pet's specific condition.