Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that affects pets, including cats and dogs, similarly to how the disease impacts people. The condition occurs when the body cannot correctly produce or use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Our Omega Veterinary Group team provides this overview of diabetes in pets, covering its types, causes, signs, diagnoses, treatments, and prevention:

Types of diabetes mellitus in pets

Two main types of diabetes mellitus affect pets:

  • Type 1 diabetes — This diabetes type occurs when the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Type 1 is more common in dogs than in cats and requires lifelong insulin therapy.
  • Type 2 diabetes — Type 2 diabetes occurs when a pet’s body becomes resistant to insulin, or the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. This condition is more common in cats than in dogs and can sometimes be managed with diet and oral medications, although insulin therapy may still be needed.

Causes of diabetes in pets 

Diabetes in pets is primarily caused by either the pancreas’s insufficient insulin production or an inability of the body’s cells to respond properly to insulin. The most common form in dogs, diabetes mellitus type 1, results from the pancreas’s insulin-producing cells, often attributable to genetic predisposition or autoimmune responses. On the other hand, diabetes mellitus type 2, which is more common in cats, is associated with insulin resistance, often influenced by factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and poor diet. Factors that increase a pet’s diabetes risk include:

  • Genetic predisposition — Certain breeds, such as poodles, beagles, pugs, dachshunds, and Siamese cats, are prone to diabetes.
  • Obesity — Excess weight can contribute to a pet’s insulin resistance, increasing their diabetes risk.
  • Pancreatitis — Chronic or acute pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, can impair insulin production and lead to diabetes.
  • Hormonal imbalances — Conditions, such as Cushing’s disease and hyperthyroidism, can increase a pet’s diabetes risk.
  • Age and gender — Older pets and female dogs are often prone to diabetes.

Diabetes signs in pets

While the effects of diabetes mellitus vary by species and disease stage, the following signs are common:

  • Increased thirst (polydipsia)
  • Increased urination (polyuria)
  • Increased appetite (polyphagia)
  • Weight loss despite an increased appetite
  • Lethargy and decreased activity
  • Cloudy eyes (cataracts) in dogs
  • Poor coat condition in cats

Untreated diabetes complications in pets

Untreated diabetes in pets can lead to severe complications affecting various organ systems. High blood glucose levels over time can damage the kidneys, leading to kidney failure. Nerve damage—neuropathy—can cause weakness, incoordination, and difficulty walking. If diabetes is left untreated, cataracts may develop rapidly, leading to blindness. Weakened immune function makes pets susceptible to infections. Additionally, untreated diabetes can cause severe metabolic imbalances, leading to ketoacidosis—a life-threatening condition requiring immediate veterinary intervention. 

Diagnosing diabetes mellitus in pets

Diabetes diagnosis involves blood and urine tests that measure glucose levels. A consistently high blood glucose level, along with glucose in the urine, is indicative of diabetes. Additional tests may include fructosamine and glycosylated hemoglobin levels to assess long-term glucose control.

Treatments for pets with diabetes mellitus 

Treatment for diabetes in pets includes:

  • Insulin therapy — Most pets with diabetes require insulin injections, which must be administered daily.
  • Diet management — Your veterinarian may recommend a high-fiber, low-fat diet for dogs. A low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet is typically beneficial for cats.
  • Exercise recommendations — Daily exercise for diabetic pets can help manage weight and maintain stable blood glucose levels.
  • Monitoring — Pets who have diabetes must have their blood glucose levels checked during veterinary visits and at home. The results help manage and adjust treatment. 

How to prevent diabetes in your pet

Because diabetes is a serious condition, follow these tips to reduce your furry friends’ risk: 

  • Maintain a healthy weight — Preventing obesity in pets and managing their weight can reduce their diabetes risk.
  • Regular veterinary exams — Schedule regular wellness exams. These visits help detect diabetes early when the condition is easier to manage. C
  • Balanced diet and exercise — Feeding your furry pal a well-balanced diet and ensuring they are active every day can help maintain their overall health.

With proper management, pets with diabetes can lead healthy lives. However, the condition requires lifelong care. Regular veterinary care, careful monitoring, and adherence to treatment protocols effectively manage diabetes and promote a better quality of life for your four-legged friend. If your pet experiences complications associated with diabetes, contact our Omega Veterinary Group team.