Does Your Pet Have Diabetes?

Every pet parent should know that his or her beloved animal are also susceptible to common health conditions like diabetes and during the month of November, it is time you learn about the disease. Diabetes is a prevalent condition that's diagnosed in over 30 million adults and children in the United States, with over 86 million Americans being at risk for developing it. Originally, National Diabetes Month was aimed to raise awareness of this growing health concern, but it has been expanded, as November is also National Pet Diabetes Month.

Since pet diabetes causes a great concern as the rates of the disease are on the rise, it's important to understand the condition as it could affect the health of your pet. In fact, Merck Animal Health reports that 1 in 200 cars and 1 in 500 dogs can develop diabetes due to certain lifestyle factors and some breeds are more prone to the condition than others are. For instance, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Pugs, Burmese cats and a few other breeds have observed higher rates of diabetes onset. Nonetheless, cats and dogs of any breed are at risk but you can help your furry friend by learning more about the condition.

Types of Pet Diabetes

Pet diabetes comes in two different forms and the first one is referred to as type 1, which means that your pet cannot produce insulin. The second form of diabetes is type 2, which means your pet can produce diabetes but the body is not properly processing it. In short, both types revolve around the production and usage of insulin that is a naturally forming hormone made in the pancreas. When there is a problem with insulin production or glucose absorption, the cells in the body cannot use the glucose they need for nutrients, which typically provides them with the energy they require to function properly. When this happens, the cells are starved of nutrition and blood sugar levels rise to dangerously heights.

Type 2 diabetes is more common of the two forms, but they both result in similar symptoms. Your pet may be excessively thirsty or hungry, they may frequently urinate, they might be constantly tired or lethargic and they could develop poor skin like oily coats or dandruff. On top of that, some pets may lose weight suddenly even if they are eating more often. Also, keep in mind that female pets are more likely to develop diabetes than males. Additionally, onset of diabetes generally occurs in cats around 8 to 13 years old and dogs may develop it between the ages of 7 to 9 years old.

It's important that you know the signs and symptoms of pet diabetes because the sooner you can point it out, the sooner your vet can develop a plan to treat it. It may come in the form of cat or dog medications, new diet restrictions and other treatment regimens to help you manage their condition. Additionally, obesity is a big risk factor when it comes to diabetes and if you can get control of your pets' weight now, you can help decrease the chances of onset. Keep this information in mind and spread the news of National Pet Diabetes Month to other pet parents!