In today’s society our pets are now afflicted with common human diseases. One of these is Diabetes. This disease is due to the body either not producing insulin, referred to as type 1 Diabetes or the body not utilizing it effectively, type 2 Diabetes. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas to regulate blood glucose levels. The following description by Vetwest reveals the importance of insulin: ‘Insulin promotes the uptake, storage and use of the sugars, fats and amino acids within the body. The role of insulin is much like that of a gatekeeper: in effect, it stands at the surface of body cells and opens the door, allowing glucose to leave the blood stream and pass inside the cells. Glucose is a vital substance that provides much of the energy needed for life, and it must work inside the cells. Without an adequate amount of insulin, glucose is unable to get into the cells. It accumulates in the blood, setting in motion a series of events that can ultimately prove fatal.’
Understanding Diabetes in Pets
Let’s take a closer look at the causes, the signs to look for, and treatment options.
Type 1 Diabetes in Pets
Type 1 diabetes, where the pancreas is unable to manufacture Beta Cells (insulin-producing cells), strikes at a young age and is usually more common in dogs than cats. It is a serious genetic fault and requires insulin injections.
Type 2 Diabetes in Pets
Type 2 diabetes is where the body has become resistant to insulin absorption or decreased secretion of insulin and normally occurs around middle age. It is common in cats and seen in older dogs.
Causes of Diabetes in Pets
Type 2 Diabetes Causes
With Type 2 diabetes, it is predominantly lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise that impact your pet’s capability to produce and absorb insulin. As with human Type 2 diabetes, obesity is far and away the biggest reason pets become diabetic.
Most processed food (dry food) is made of grains and carbs. Our pets have no biological requirement for grains or carbs. Their essential nutrients are predominantly protein and fats. These high-carb diets are turned into sugar in our pets’ bodies, and this excess sugar leads to diabetes. Research has shown high-protein, low-carb diets can reverse this type of diabetes.
In addition to poor diet, many of our pets are obese due to lack of exercise. More physical exercise can reduce obesity and lower blood sugar levels. However, too much physical exertion can lead to hypoglycemia, so always be careful with a diabetic patient.
Dogs that have had Cushing’s Disease or high use of steroids can also develop diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes Causes
Diabetes 1 is not linked to diet. Some of the major factors contributing to Type 1 diabetes are genetics, autoimmune issues, and pancreatitis. Half of all canine diabetes cases are thought to be due to autoimmunity, where the body destroys the beta cells. Some breeds are thought to be more susceptible, and 25% of Type 1 diabetes is related to pancreatitis, where the beta cells are also destroyed.
Early Signs of Diabetes in Pets
- Ravenous Appetite with Weight Loss – Medical terminology is polyphagia. This happens as the cells in the animal become starved of energy so the body begins to break down its own stores of fat and protein. To replace this fuel loss the animal eats more, yet loses weight.
- Increased Frequency in Urination – Known as polyuria. There is a build-up of sugar in the body so the animal urinates more frequently as it tries to eliminate the excess.
- Excessive Thirst – Called polydipsia. With excessive urination dehydration can set in so the animal drinks more to compensate.
Later Signs of Diabetes in Pets
- Vomiting and Diarrhoea
- Dehydration
- Weakness and Lethargy
- Smelly Breath – Often with a peardrop scent due to ketones, a by-product of the body utilising its own fat and protein.
Treatment Options for Diabetes in Pets
Managing Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes will require a lifetime of insulin injections or oral medication. That is the only way for these animals to regulate their blood glucose levels. You can also help your pets by maintaining a regular feeding routine, providing a species-appropriate diet, and limiting their stress levels.
Managing Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes can possibly be prevented and reversed with the appropriate diet. Your pets need protein, fibre, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. Once dogs are weaned, they have no use for carbohydrates. Our pets get their energy from protein and healthy fats. By feeding a species-appropriate diet (in most cases raw) and avoiding processed foods, you can help your dog manage diabetes and possibly prevent or reverse this disease.
Alternative Therapy: Kinesiology
Kinesiology may also help your pets with diabetes. Through a series of blood glucose balances or pancreas balances, kinesiology aims to regulate blood glucose levels, digestion, hormone balance, and improved pancreatic function.
