Is your cat or Dog experiencing any of these Signs?

• Increased thirst?
• Increased urination?
• Increased hunger while still losing weight?
• Lower activity?
• Thinning, dry or dull coat?

If so - you might want to talk to your vet about getting your pet screened for diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes Mellitus is the medical name for diabetes. It's a disease caused by lack of insulin that affects the level of glucose or sugar in your pet's bloodstream. Glucose, which is produced from your pet's food is an important source of energy. and in order for it to to reach the cells where it can be used, it needs insulin. Healthy pets produce insulin naturally but pets with diabetes don't.

In this case, glucose builds up in he bloodstream but cannot reach the cells where it is needed.

Is Diabetes in Pets the same as Diabetes in People?

Yes, the two conditions are much the same which is why you'll find both the treatment and monitoring systems similar to those used for diabetic humans.

How common is diabetes in Dogs and Cats?

Diabets is reported to affect anywhere between 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 dogs and cats but experts believe this disease is actually on the rise.

Can Diabetes lead to other health problems?

Yes, dogs and cats living with diabetes for a year or more can devlop other health problems.

For dogs, the most common complication of diabetes is cataracts. Persistently high glucose levels make the lens of the eye opaque causing blindness.

For cats, weakness of the hind legs is a common complication. Persistantly high blood glucode levels may damage nerves causing weakness and muscle wasting.

This is why it's so important to catch this disease in it's early stages.

Will Diabetes Affect my Pet's Life expectancy?

Effective treatment is available nowdays so your pet can live the same comfortable and long life as a non diabetic dog or cat. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help a diabetic pet maintain a good quality of life.

How can my Vet Test for Diabetes?

Your vet may begin by performing a general health examination and testing a small amount of your pet's urine.

If glucose is present in the urine, your vet will then follow up with a blood test to determine blood glucose levels. A diagnosis of Diabetes in confirmed when persistetly high levels of glucose are found in both the blood and urine.

How Will I take Care of a Pet with Diabetes?

Although there is no cure for Diabetes, it can be successfully managed with the help of your vet.

Daily insulin injections are usually required to restore the insulin levels and control blood glucose levels. Don't worry, it's easier than you think. We have many clients who have been successfully treating their diabetc pets for years. Apart from giving daily injections, maintaining a strict diet schedule is also part of the treatment program. Your vet is best placed to advise you on the best diet for your pet based on its ideal body weight.

Managing your pet's diabetes will require some effort but the results are well worth it. Pets shose diabetes is under control have normal thirst, appetite, urination and activity levels. Their weight is generally stable and they are less likely to develop complicatiions.

The best recommendation we can give any of you who may be concerned about your pet's health is to book a general health check and urine test with your vet. It won't cost the earth and it's worth it for peace of mind.