A Puddle on the Sofa

It all started with an "accident" on the sofa. Zak, a Miniature Schnauzer owned by Fran Stepps of Mesquite, Texas, had always been a frisky yet well-behaved dog. True, he had been a bit thirstier than usual lately but that didn't seem like cause for alarm. It was only when the normally well-trained Zak urinated on the furniture that Stepps grew concerned. Zak's veterinarian performed tests that revealed diabetes mellitus -- sometimes called "sugar diabetes" -- and prescribed daily doses of human insulin. But even after a year on the medication, Zak's blood glucose levels were not fully under control. Not only that, he grew listless and lost a lot of weight, dropping from 26 pounds to 17. Determined to help her beloved pet, Stepps researched the problem and found information about porcine insulin zinc suspension, the only form of injectable insulin made specifically for dogs. After consulting with Zak's vet again, he agreed to prescribe the new drug.  The result:  Zak's blood glucose level quickly stabilized and his condition improved. The story underscores the importance of early diagnosis and prompt, effective intervention to treat diabetes.

Raising awareness

Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health (ISP) -- with the support of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) -- is sponsoring Pet Diabetes Month in November, as a way to raise awareness of the disease and educate pet owners on the warning signs and appropriate care. The Pet Diabetes Month website is an excellent source of diabetes information for owners of both dogs and cats.
 
Randy Lynn, DVM, MS, DACVP, Manager-Technical Services for ISP, said: "This campaign is designed to help pet owners understand the condition, its risk factors and what to do if they notice a change in their pet's behavior or appearance that might indicate diabetes. Detection and management can help prevent serious medical complications, including heart disease and kidney problems, which can occur when the disease is left untreated."

A Common Malady

Diabetes in pets is not uncommon. Approximately one dog in 500 develops the disease and that number is on the rise. "Diabetes in dogs is almost always insulin-dependent and veterinarians don't really understand the reasons for the increase," Lynn said . "In cats, the disease is seen in those who have many of the same risk factors often seen in people with diabetes: obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and a high carbohydrate/low protein diet. Fortunately, we know that a significant percentage of diabetic cats can return to a non-diabetic state if they are diagnosed early and treated appropriately with diet and insulin."

Which Breeds Are at Risk?

While the disease may occur in any dog, certain breeds are at greater risk:

• Cocker Spaniels
• Dachshunds
• Doberman Pinschers
• German Shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
• Labrador Retrievers
• Pomeranians
• Toy Poodles

Diabetes typically occurs in dogs from four to 14 years old, and unspayed female dogs are twice as likely as males to suffer from the disease.

What are the signs of diabetes?

Signs of diabetes often develop gradually and most commonly include drinking a lot of water, urinating more often than usual, increased appetite, weight loss, and skin sores that take a long time to heal. However, only your veterinarian can make a definitive diagnosis by measuring sugar (glucose) levels in your pet's blood and urine.

Managing the Condition

Zak is one of the lucky ones. In addition to administering insulin to Zak every day, his owner tests his blood glucose levels twice a day before meals and carefully monitors his diet. Stepps also makes sure the 11-year-old dog has regular check-ups and gets plenty of exercise. With that much TLC, she can expect Zak to live a normal lifespan for his breed. "Dogs and cats can live long and happy lives if they receive appropriate therapy with diet and insulin," said Lynn.

Better safe than sorry

November -- Pet Diabetes Month -- is a good time for all pet owners to educate themselves about the warning signs of canine and feline diabetes. If you think your pet may be affected, don't wait to act; check with your veterinarian promptly. Remember: pet diabetes can be treated.

Reviewed by John A. Bukowski, DVM, MPH, PhD and Susan E. Aiello, DVM, ELS

Comments

Disclaimer: If you believe your pet is suffering from a health-related problem or if symptoms are recurring, please contact your veterinarian immediately. The comments and other content in this portion of the WebVet Site are submitted by WebVet Site users and visitors and are not generated, edited or reviewed by WebVet. WebVet disclaims all responsibility and liability for this content. Please refer to the Terms of Service, Posting and Submission of Material by Users, for the terms and conditions applicable to user generated content.

Sign in or register to leave a comment