November is nationally recognized as American Diabetes Month, but did you know that it is also Pet Diabetes Awareness Month? Diabetes in dogs and cats has become a growing epidemic throughout the years. Knowing what diabetes is, how to prevent it, and how to treat it if your pet develops it is our responsibility as pet owners to keep our best friends as healthy and happy as possible. Here are some facts about diabetes in pets, brought to you by our pet door installation experts.
Diabetes in pets, like in humans, results from the glucose-insulin connection malfunctioning because of an insulin complication. This can either be an insulin deficiency in your pet's body (known in humans as Type 1 diabetes) or that the body isn't using its insulin effectively as a result of insulin resistance (or Type 2 diabetes). Type 1 diabetes is caused when the pancreas cannot produce insulin in the way it should, prohibiting glucose from getting into the cells of the body to be converted into energy. Type 2 is induced by your pet's diet. While there is good insulin production in their body, they will become insulin-resistant because they consume too much sugar.
Though we commonly associate obesity and diet as being causes of diabetes, there are many other risk factors that can raise your pet's risk of developing diabetes. These include breed or genetics, age, auto-immunity, GMOs, gender, toxins, an inflamed pancreas, vaccinations, metabolic syndrome, and the long-term use of steroid drugs. While your pet's diet is certainly something you need to keep a careful watch over to reduce their likelihood of developing diabetes, it certainly isn't the only possible cause.
If your dog or cat does have diabetes, how do you recognize the signs? Symptoms of diabetes can develop gradually over time, such as the following:
If you begin to notice some of these symptoms in your dog, contact your vet so they can be tested for diabetes before their condition worsens.
The most important thing to remember if your pet has been diagnosed with diabetes is that they can absolutely lead a long, happy and healthy life with proper treatment. Start by modifying their diet, eliminating processed foods that are high in sugar and starch in favor of foods that have high fiber, protein, low calories, and protein. Also, make sure they drink plenty of water. Regular exercise can make a big difference too, helping your pet lose excess weight and lower their blood sugar levels. Installing a pet door for easy outdoor access can allow them to get the exercise they need. A healthy diet combined with a daily exercise regime will help control their diabetes and could possibly minimize the need for insulin.
Caring for a pet with diabetes is a daunting task at first, but you'll soon find that it's a manageable condition for them to live with. The changes will become part of yours and your pet's daily life. With some special attention and hard work, your dog or cat will lead a happy and nearly normal life.
Do you have any questions? Contact Glass Pet Doors today to discuss pet door installation, perfect for helping your diabetic pets have easy access to outdoor exercise. We're happy to help!