Wednesday, April 10, 2013

What Are The Symptoms of Canine Diabetes?

By Geraldine Dimarco


Canine diabetes is a sickness that strikes one tenth of the dog population in the world. You will seldom notice that your dog is already sick with this disease; which makes it all the more dangerous because its effects are already damaging the dog's internal system irreversibly. Its progression is gradual but definite. If diabetes is not treated in a timely manner, it will lead to the animal's death.

Diabetes usually manifest in dogs that are about seven to nine years old. Some breeds are also more prone to contract this condition. There are only a few options available when it is in its advanced stages so it is vital that you watch out for these symptoms of dog diabetes to be able to treat it as soon as possible.

1. Undue thirst and urination. Diabetes makes the canine unable to process glucose adequately, resulting in overproduction that is stored in his system. The dog will urinate more frequently as an attempt to get rid of this excess glucose. This makes him dehydrated and he will become thirstier. Do not mistake this for incontinence or bladder infection though. You will observe that the diabetic dog's urine is pale and overly runny in its consistency.

2. Tiredness. When you have a normally active dog exhibiting signs of extreme fatigue without any underlying cause, it is an indication that something is not working properly in him. It is essential that you notice behavioral changes that are actually signs that he needs serious medical attention.

3. Significant weight gain. Because of insulin deficiency that diabetes causes, the dog will not have the ability to burn sugar as he normally could. This translates to a lack of energy as well as a rise in body weight. When your dog experiences weight gain for no apparent reason, it is an indicator that something is amiss in his body and you need to check with the veterinary immediately.

4. Unexplained loss of weight. A dog with diabetes is unable to derive enough energy from the food that he eats so his body compensates by burning stored fat. The outcome: increased levels of ketones and weight loss. This is a customary side effect of diabetes but it can be helped through a healthy and nutrient rich diet.

The main culprit of diabetes is simply bad genes. Check the medical history of the puppy and his parents to see if he is susceptible to have this disease. Infections can also trigger irregular insulin production which causes canine diabetes. An example of one such disease is Cushing?s disease.

It is of vital importance that you remember and take note of any changes in your dog. Symptoms of dog diabetes will manifest and when they do, be sure to take them to your vet as soon as you are able. Diabetes, sometimes lead to canine death but when it is discovered early on will not prove to be terminal. Maintain regular vet appointments to ensure your pet's optimal health.




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