Please don’t forget us, say pets

dubai — The growing diabetes epidemic isn’t just limited to humans, it’s increasing across all species, including cats and dogs.

But with good care, your pet can lead a long, healthy life — but only if you’re a willing owner.

“If your pet has diabetes, it’s treatable with injections, but your lifestyle will be altered. If you can’t commit, the outcome can be awful,” Dr Sara Elliott, Veterinary Director at British Veterinary Hospital in Dubai tells Khaleej Times.

Statistics show approximately one in every 200 cats and one in every 400-500 dogs are diagnosed with diabetes.

In dogs, Type 1 diabetes is most common, and according to research from The College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University, around three quarters of cases diagnosed in cats have developed from Type 2 into Type 1.

Though both diagnoses requires insulin injections, pets can “live happily as a diabetic” if the right steps are followed.

“Coupled with the right medication, nutrition and exercise is key.”

She says pet food sold in supermarkets should be viewed in a similar way to fast foods. Dr Elliot and urged owners to source their food produce from veterinary clinics where it is possible to ensure that they obtain the right nutritional advice.

“A good carbohydrate and protein balance is key. However, we are slightly restricted when it comes to the pet food market here, but certain brands offers the right balance for a dog’s diet.”

Though diabetes is non-reversible in dogs, in cats the contributing factors are very similar to that in humans: sedentary lifestyles and inactivity are to blame.

If you suspect your pet has diabetes, the key signs to look for are: decreased activity; increased thirst; urinating more frequently in inappropriate places. However, signs can be missed so make sure your pet has regular screening tests.

For families living with a diagnosed or non-diagnosed diabetic pet, Dr Elliott says one piece of information is vital.

“The risk of a sudden diabetic crises is always possible. If your pet changes from his or her normal routine and appears slightly unwell, but within 12 hours starts vomiting, and refuses to eat or drink despite trying to, then it is important to treat it as an emergency and get it to a vet.”

In British Veterinary Hospital, Dr Elliott is currently treating about “half a dozen” animals with diabetes. > High risk - Pure bred dogs

> Low risk - Boxer dogs

BREEDS

A good protein and carbohydrate balance is key. We are restricted when it comes to the pet food market here

Dr Sara Elliott