Just like humans, pets can develop diabetes too—and it’s becoming increasingly common in both dogs and cats. Managing diabetes in pets requires attention, patience, and regular veterinary care, but with the right approach, diabetic pets can live full and happy lives. At Atlas Animal Hospital, we help pet parents understand what to look for, how to manage the condition, and what daily care involves.
What Is Diabetes In Pets
Diabetes mellitus in pets occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or cannot use it properly. Insulin is the hormone responsible for helping cells absorb glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream for energy. When insulin function is impaired, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.
There are two main types of diabetes seen in pets:
- Type I (insulin-dependent): The pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. This is more common in dogs.
- Type II (insulin-resistant): The body produces insulin, but it doesn’t use it effectively. This type is more common in overweight cats.
Common Signs Of Diabetes
Pet diabetes can develop gradually, so the symptoms might be easy to miss at first. Watch for these key changes:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Noticeable weight loss despite a good appetite
- Lethargy or reduced activity
- Cloudy eyes in dogs (a sign of cataracts)
- Poor coat condition or unkempt appearance, especially in cats
- Sweet or fruity odor on the breath
If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s best to schedule an appointment at Atlas Animal Hospital as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can prevent serious complications.
How Diabetes Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing diabetes involves more than a simple blood test. At Atlas Animal Hospital, our veterinarians perform a combination of blood and urine analyses to measure glucose levels and rule out other conditions that mimic diabetic symptoms.
In many cases, pets also undergo additional tests such as:
- Blood chemistry panels to assess organ function
- Fructosamine testing to evaluate long-term glucose control
- Urinalysis to detect glucose or infection in the urine
Once diabetes is confirmed, your vet will work closely with you to create a personalized management plan tailored to your pet’s lifestyle and overall health.
Managing Diabetes In Dogs And Cats
Managing diabetes in pets revolves around three main components: insulin therapy, diet, and regular monitoring.
1. Insulin therapy
Most diabetic pets require daily insulin injections to regulate blood sugar levels. Your veterinary team will teach you how to safely administer insulin at home and how to recognize signs of high or low blood sugar. Consistency is key—administer insulin at the same times each day, ideally after meals.
2. Nutrition and feeding routines
A stable diet is essential for diabetic pets.
- Dogs benefit from high-fiber, complex carbohydrate diets that help stabilize glucose absorption.
- Cats, being natural carnivores, do better on high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets.
Avoid frequent treats or table scraps since these can cause fluctuations in blood sugar. Feeding and insulin schedules should be consistent every day to maintain balance.
3. Regular monitoring
Routine checkups and at-home monitoring help track how well your pet’s diabetes is being controlled. Your vet may recommend glucose curve testing, where blood sugar levels are checked at intervals throughout the day. Some pets also benefit from at-home glucose monitoring devices.
In addition to blood glucose checks, pay attention to behavior changes, eating habits, and energy levels. Even small changes can provide important clues about your pet’s stability.
Long-Term Care And Complications
With proper management, diabetic pets can live normal lifespans. However, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications such as cataracts, urinary tract infections, nerve damage, and even life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
Regular veterinary visits—every three to six months—are essential to adjust insulin doses, monitor weight, and ensure your pet remains in good health.
Exercise also plays a role in diabetes management, especially for dogs. Moderate, consistent activity helps regulate glucose levels. However, exercise intensity should remain steady—avoid sudden increases that can cause blood sugar drops.
When To Seek Veterinary Help
If your pet shows signs of vomiting, weakness, shaking, disorientation, or a sudden loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately. These may be signs of a blood sugar imbalance or complications requiring urgent attention.
At Atlas Animal Hospital, our team provides comprehensive diabetes management for both dogs and cats—from accurate diagnosis and insulin training to nutritional counseling and ongoing monitoring. We work closely with pet owners to ensure every diabetic pet receives the care, consistency, and support they need to thrive.
For personalized advice or to schedule a diabetes checkup for your pet, call us at (604) 301-0300.