Better pets

Just like humans, our pets can suffer from diabetes mellitus — the inability of the body to regulate the uptake of glucose. It’s an increasingly common disease, which is normally due to the pancreas not producing enough insulin (Type 1) or the body not being able to process the insulin (Type 2).

STAY ALERT

A lack of insulin leads to increased glucose levels in the blood. Without insulin, the body is forced to use energy sources other than glucose, which leads to a toxin build-up in the blood. Untreated, diabetes can be deadly! Diabetic symptoms include excessive eating, drinking and urination, weight loss, persistent urinary tract infections and, possibly, cataracts.

BREEDS AT RISK Diabetes can affect any breed, but Australian research shows dogs at most risk include Australian terriers, Siberian huskies and English springer spaniels. Unspayed female dogs are twice as likely as males to develop diabetes while desexed male dogs are more at risk compared with both entire males and desexed females. In a genetic study of felines, WA’S Centre for Diabetes Research found Australian Burmese cats have a significantly higher risk of Type 2 diabetes than other breeds.

GOOD MANAGEMENT Treatment involves a feeding and insulin injection schedule plus a proper diet and regular exercise. Unfortunately, as the pet obesity epidemic continues, the prevalence of diabetes looks set to rise. For prevention, keep your pet active and healthy!

Concerned your furry friend may be at risk? Chat to your vet about annual testing.

limit the risk of diabetes – STOP YOUR PET FROM OVEREATING and under exercising!