Diabetes in Pets: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Diabetes can affect pets just as it does people. While hearing that your dog or cat has diabetes can feel overwhelming, the condition is very manageable with proper treatment and monitoring. With the right plan in place, many diabetic pets continue to enjoy full, active lives.
At Belle Isle Animal Hospital, we support pet owners throughout Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, and the Chastain Park area by helping them understand diabetes and feel confident managing their pet’s care at home.
Understanding Diabetes in Pets
Diabetes mellitus occurs when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Glucose is essential for energy, but it must be paired with insulin to be absorbed into the body’s cells.
Insulin is produced by the pancreas. In diabetic pets, insulin production is either insufficient or absent altogether. When this happens, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy, leading to persistently high blood sugar.
Types of Diabetes
Dogs most commonly develop insulin dependent diabetes, meaning the pancreas produces little to no insulin. These pets require lifelong insulin therapy.
Cats may develop non insulin dependent diabetes, where some insulin production remains. Although treatment is still required, some cats may achieve remission with proper management.
Signs Pet Owners May Notice
Early symptoms of diabetes can be subtle and often develop gradually.
Increased thirst and urination are common, as the kidneys attempt to flush excess sugar from the bloodstream.
Some pets experience increased hunger while still losing weight, since their bodies are unable to use glucose efficiently.
As the condition progresses, pets may appear tired, weak, or uninterested in food.
Diagnosing Diabetes
Veterinarians diagnose diabetes through blood and urine testing. Elevated blood glucose levels and the presence of glucose in the urine are key indicators of the disease.
Treatment and Ongoing Care
Most diabetic dogs and many cats require insulin injections. Although this can sound intimidating, injections are given under the skin using very small needles, and most pets tolerate them extremely well. Your veterinary team will demonstrate proper technique and help you feel confident before starting treatment.
Insulin comes in different formulations, each requiring a specific syringe type. Matching the correct syringe to the prescribed insulin is critical to avoid dosing errors.
Because each pet responds differently to insulin, determining the correct dose takes time. Blood glucose curves are often used to track how a pet’s blood sugar changes throughout the day. Adjustments are made gradually until stable control is achieved.
Some pets may use continuous glucose monitors, allowing owners to collect readings at home and share that information with their veterinarian.
Diet is another essential part of diabetes management. Prescription diets are commonly recommended, and maintaining a consistent feeding schedule is especially important for pets receiving insulin.
Possible Complications
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency that occurs when the body produces ketones as it breaks down fat for energy. This condition can lead to dehydration, lethargy, organ dysfunction, and requires immediate veterinary care.
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, may occur if too much insulin is administered or if a pet does not eat as expected. Symptoms can include weakness, confusion, or seizures in severe cases.
Dogs with diabetes may also develop cataracts due to prolonged high blood sugar levels, which can affect vision.
Diabetes does require commitment, monitoring, and partnership with your veterinary team, but it does not have to define your pet’s life. Early recognition and consistent care can make a meaningful difference in long term outcomes. If you notice changes in your pet’s drinking, urination, weight, or appetite, scheduling an evaluation sooner rather than later can help set your pet up for success.
