Diabetes Mellitus

What is diabetes mellitus?

A diabetic dog cannot move glucose into their cells to metabolize it for energy. In Type I (i.e., insulin-dependent) diabetes, the pancreas produces insufficient insulin, whereas in Type II (i.e., non-insulin-dependent) diabetes, the body’s cells do not respond appropriately to insulin.

The vast majority of dogs have Type I diabetes, which can be due to pancreatitis, genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, adrenal disorders, or obesity. In a diabetic dog, glucose accumulates in the blood and urine, instead of fueling the body.

What are common diabetes signs in dogs?

Early signs include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Increased appetite with weight loss
• Dull haircoat

Intermediate to advanced signs include:

• Decreased activity
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Cataracts or sudden blindness
• Decreased appetite
• Seizures or collapse

How is diabetes managed in dogs?  

Diabetes management depends on the severity of signs and stage of disease. “Diabetic ketoacidosis” is a more advanced form of diabetes that often requires hospitalization. Concurrent diseases should be addressed, because they can affect treatment success. Diabetic dogs require lifelong, twice-daily insulin injections, but their insulin requirement may increase or decrease over time, so regular diagnostic testing and close observation is essential. Diabetes control also includes a palatable prescription diet, based on your dog’s body condition. Discussing a personalized management plan with your veterinarian is important for the best outcome for your dog.

What is the prognosis for dogs with diabetes?

The prognosis for dogs with diabetes depends on the disease stage and their treatment response. Mortality rate is higher in the first six months after diagnosis, due to concurrent diseases such as infections, pancreatitis, or ketoacidosis. Over the long term, well-controlled diabetic dogs can have a good quality of life, and a life expectancy similar to non-diabetic dogs. 

Management tips for dogs with diabetes  

At-home needs include:

• Strict consistency with feeding times and insulin injections
• A palatable prescription diet
• Monitoring appetite, drinking, urination, defecation, and weight
• Watching for low blood glucose signs
• Possible at-home blood or urine glucose testing

For end-of-life care:

• Try to keep your dog safe and comfortable
• Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
• Monitor for pain or discomfort
• Evaluate your dog’s quality of life with our scoring tool
• Track progression of their health with our calendar

In a crisis situation:

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog stops eating, or shows signs of low blood glucose, such as lethargy, weakness, stumbling, seizures, tremors, or unconsciousness.

Before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life, beginning end-of-life care discussions is vital. Learn more about pet hospice, in-home euthanasia, and our teleadvice service, or contact a Lap of Love veterinarian in your area, so you can feel fully prepared for this difficult time.