| |
|
|
|
|
Diabetes Info
|
|
Diabetes Blog Topics
|
Dr. Michael Dym
Holistic & Conventional Veterinarian
|
"Over 19 years of caring for
the well-being of pets"
Visit his Ask the Vet blog.
|
|
|
|
|
Diabetes in Dogs and Cats
|
 |
|
 |
| |
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus is an illness caused when sugar cannot enter the cells. The cells must use other sources of energy and consume fat and muscle proteins to make that energy. Using fat for energy releases ketone byproducts that create a dangerous condition where the acids in the body are too high (metabolic acidosis). With high acids, the brain doesn't function and your pet can lapse into a coma. In addition, your pet's body is harmed by the free radicals released as fat and proteins are consumed. Blood vessels, nerves, eyes, heart, and kidneys are often damaged.
Can Pets with Diabetes Develop Secondary Health Problems?
Yes. Diabetic dogs and cas are at a higher risk of being predisposed to comas, cataracts, blindness, bladder infection, nerve deterioration, paralysis, gangrene, and kidney disease.
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Diabetes in pets may cause death if left untreated
Diet is a significant factor in causing and in treating diabetes
How insulin is given affects how quickly and how long it works
Some pets need insulin for a period, then recover and no longer need it
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
