| CANINE DIABETES |
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| The result of inadequate insulin production by the pancreas, canine
diabetes mellitus (DM) is a relatively common disease. Beta islet
cells in the pancreas which are responsible for the production of
insulin are destroyed over time. There are probably many reasons for
beta islet cell destruction including pancreatitis, Cushing’s
Disease, acromegaly, infections, intestinal irritation and certain
medications. While some dogs are genetically predisposed to the
disease, there is no breed predilection. The disease causes an
increase in blood glucose that would normally be distributed to the
various tissues for energy in cell metabolism. As glucose levels
increase, cells turn to other chemicals for energy. Fat and muscle
are broken down in an attempt to satisfy the body’s energy needs.
Increases in blood glucose will also overwhelm the kidneys’ ability
to conserve glucose and urine glucose levels will rise (glucosuria). |
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| Clinical
Signs |
| Symptoms of diabetes mellitus include: increased appetite (polyphagia),
increased urination (polyuria), increased thirst (polydypsia),
cataracts and blindness. These signs may be concurrent with weight
loss or noticeable muscle degeneration. Left untreated, blood levels
of ketones (the breakdown product of protein metabolism) will
increase, causing ketoacidosis and potentially vomiting, weakness,
depression, coma or death. |
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| Diagnosis |
| Diabetes mellitus is diagnosed based on a combination of physical
examination, a urinalysis and blood work. Because diabetes may be caused by
a separate underlying disease, your veterinarian will want to perform the
appropriate diagnostics in the hopes of identifying the problem. DM is a
relatively easy diagnosis. However, it is very important to insure there are
no other abnormalities that may be causing the diabetes or may make control
difficult. |
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| Treatment |
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Treatment of diabetes mellitus depends on the severity of the
disease at the time of diagnosis. Some dogs may require
hospitalization for a few days. If the disease is caught in the
early stages, however, the pet may be treated at home. Most
treatment protocols include a strict diet change and
glucose-lowering agents. Diet management involves minimizing large
changes in blood glucose levels by controlling the dog’s weight and
the composition of the diet. Diets containing complex carbohydrates
and fiber are best. Dividing meals into two feedings can also help
control glucose fluctuations. Common diets recommended by
veterinarians include Hill’s Prescription Diet W/D, Purina Fit and
Trim and Gaines Cycle 3 Light.
Insulin therapy is the drug of choice
for the diabetic dog. Most owners are initially apprehensive about
administering injections at home. However, with patience and a
lesson from your veterinarian, learning how to administer insulin is
straightforward. There are different types of insulin which have
different durations of effect, including: regular (short acting), NPH and Lente (intermediate acting) and PZI and Ultralente (long
acting). Your veterinarian can determine the best type for your dog.
Managing a diabetic dog over the
long-term includes occasional trips back to the veterinarian for
blood glucose checks, annual physical exams and blood work to ensure
no complications. At home, owners should routinely monitor appetite,
water intake and urination for changes which may indicate glucose
fluctuations. Your veterinarian may also show you how to monitor
glucose levels in the blood and urine using test strips. Some pets
do not respond to insulin therapy or may develop a resistance to it.
In these dogs, a combination of medications may be prescribed. Other
dogs may respond very dramatically to a dose of insulin and become
hypoglycemic (showing lethargy and collapse).
If you suspect that
your dog is hypoglycemic, rubbing some corn syrup on your dog’s gums
may help. However, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
Diabetes mellitus is a life-long disease that requires a strong
commitment from the owner beyond normal pet care. This essential
commitment is an ongoing process of monitoring multiple parameters,
controlling diet, administering daily insulin and a long-term
relationship with a veterinarian. |
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| Please do not use our website to attempt to diagnose or treat your pet. The consultation with your veterinarian is the best source of health advice for your individual pet. You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet. Günbil German shepherd dogs, worldclassgsd.com and or Günbil German shepherds, accepts no liability related to the veterinary advice and
information provided on this site regarding health matters. |
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