If a dog suddenly drinks a lot and loses weight, even though it eats a lot and enough – then it may be diabetic. Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common hormone-related diseases in dogs. Since this disease causes severe health damage if left untreated, it is important that dog owners recognize the signs early on.
The Diabetes occurs in the dog mostly in the age between seven and nine years at. Female dogs are affected twice as often as male dogs. The most common breeds Dachshunds, beagles, miniature schnauzers and poodles.
What does diabetes mean?
Sugar, or glucose, is the body's most important source of energy. The hormone insulin, produced in the pancreas, is responsible for the vital transport of glucose into the body's cells. If insulin is absent, glucose accumulates in the blood instead of the cells and blood sugar levels rise. If this exceeds a certain value, increased glucose is excreted via the kidneys – associated with increased fluid loss and thirst.
Signs of diabetes in dogs
The diabetic dog therefore drinks more than usual and must treat accordingly Watering frequently. Starving" at the same time the body cells after glucose and try to cover the deficiency from other nutrients. Therefore a diabetic dog eats also very much more. Nevertheless the dog loses weight, because the food cannot be properly utilized. Another indication of diabetes is a general dullness and fatigue. Occasionally, paralysis of the hind legs or tail also occurs.
Causes of diabetes in dogs
Cause of diabetes can be viral infections, metabolic or autoimmune diseases. In dachshunds, poodles, miniature schnauzers, beagles and various terrier breeds, a genetic predisposition has also been demonstrated. The typical diabetic dog is usually more than seven years old. Four times more often female than male.
Treatment of diabetes in dogs
If diabetes is suspected, the veterinarian will first test the dog's Measuring blood glucose and determine the dose of insulin that the patient needs. Treatment of a diabetic dog is usually lifelong. Also requires a certain adjustment in the lifestyle of the owners.
After proper training, the dog owner can administer insulin at home. Depending on the course of the disease, the insulin dose must be corrected upwards or downwards. However, these adjustments should be made exclusively by the veterinarian. A diet with a high proportion of crude fiber, tailored to the needs of the diabetic dog, also has a positive effect on the course of the disease.