Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs

Diabetes mellitus is a common disorder in dogs where the pancreas does not produce sufficient amounts of insulin. Insulin is needed so that your dog can properly transform glucose into energy. When your dog’s body does not produce enough, it results in high blood sugar, increased urination, and increased water intake. Diabetes affects all the organs in your dog’s body, but is easily treated. Females with this disease outnumber males three to one, and the average age of onset is between 6 and 9. Some dog breeds seem to be particularly susceptible to diabetes mellitus: Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Miniature Schnauzers, Keeshonden, and Poodles.

Signs & Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus

Increased urination and water intake
Increased appetite
Weight loss
Lethargy
Vomiting
Dehydration
Comatose state
Cataracts

If an advanced dog diabetes case goes untreated, it can lead to an enlarged liver, increased susceptibility to infection, and neurological problems.

Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus

Diagnosis begins with a complete history and a physical exam. Your veterinarian will be most likely to do the following:

Blood glucose curve - This test is used to monitor your dog’s response to insulin. A baseline blood sample will be taken beforehand and tested for its blood glucose level. Your dog will then be fed and given an injection of insulin. Subsequent blood samples will be taken at regular intervals throughout the day to monitor your dog’s response to the insulin over time. The amount and frequency of insulin injections can then be refined based on your dog’s individual need. This will require a day stay in the hospital for your dog.
Urinalysis - This test involves collection of a urine sample. The urine will then be examined visually, chemically, and microscopically for abnormalities. Your veterinarian will look for red blood cells, crystal formation within the bladder, and abnormal pH or chemical values in the urine. In this case, your veterinarian will pay particular attention to the presence of glucose in the urine, which is an indication of diabetes mellitus.

Treatment for Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes is easily regulated with daily injections of insulin. The amount of insulin and the frequency of the injections varies with every case, so your veterinarian will likely test a protocol for a period of time and then refine it after further blood glucose curve tests.

Weight management also plays a large role in the treatment of diabetes. Obese dogs have a hard time processing the insulin effectively and make diabetes difficult to control. In the case of an overweight diabetic dog, a special diet high in fiber and carbohydrates will likely be prescribed. Diabetic dogs will need separate feedings throughout the day to prevent getting all of their calories in one sitting. These feedings are usually associated with the insulin injection schedule which needs to be followed strictly.

Keeping your dog on a strict eating, insulin, and exercise routine daily will help them live a happy, healthy life despite their diabetes.

Proper handling of insulin

Be sure you have the appropriate size syringe for the concentration of insulin you are using. Variations include: U-40, U-100, and U-500 syringes, which go with the corresponding 40, 100, and 500 units/ml insulin concentrations.
Insulin should be stored in the refrigerator.
Pay careful attention to the expiration date on the insulin bottle.
To mix insulin, NEVER shake the bottle or agitate it too harshly; gently roll the bottle between your palms.
Draw up the correct unit amount of insulin and double check the amount before giving the injection to your dog. Ensure that there are no bubbles in your syringe.
If any amount of insulin leaks from the syringe or injection site, DO NOT repeat the injection. Wait until it is time to give the next scheduled dose. If you have any questions or concerns, call your veterinarian. Giving too much insulin at one time can make your dog sick. Signs of an insulin overdose include: confusion, disorientation, stumbling, shivering, or seizing.
Make sure you follow your veterinarian’s protocol for feeding in association with the insulin intake.
Dispose of needles properly.