Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the most common hormonal dog diseases. It occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin.

Insulin is a hormone which is needed to transport glucose (sugar), amino acids and minerals from the blood to muscles and other cells. When there is not enough or no insulin, glucose cannot move into the cells and the glucose level in the blood and urine rises to abnormally high levels.

Diabetes Mellitus affects about one in 400-500 dogs. Breeds more at risk include Keeshonds, Pulis, Miniature Pinschers, Cairn terriers, Poodles, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers and Beagles.

Causes

• Poor genetics
• Viral infections
• Autoimmune pancreatic cell destruction
• Pancreatitis
• Prescription drugs
• Other hormonal disease

Symptoms
Early symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Rapid weight loss despite a good appetite

Later symptoms:

• Weakness and depression
• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Cataracts and blindness

Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will conduct the following basic steps to diagnose the problem before treating your dog:

• Question you about your dog’s medical history
• Perform a physical examination
• Perform a urine test to check for glucose and for signs of urinary tract infection
• Take a blood sample for a blood test
• X-rays and ultrasound scanning may be required if complications or concurrent diseases (such as pancreatitis) are suspected.

Treatment

• Twice daily injections of insulin to control blood glucose
• Proper weight management, a high fiber diet and regular exercise
• De-sexing female diabetic dogs
• Insulin is started at a low dose of initially and adjusted upward slowly to avoid overdosing. Frequent visits to the veterinarian will be required to best work out the most correct dose of insulin.

Prevention
Unfortunately there is no way of preventing Diabetes Mellitus. However, to prevent pancreatitis, you can make sure your dog does not become overweight and do not feed him foods high in fat (sausages, fat from meat, etc.).