DIABETES MELLITUS
alaskan....@gocco.co.za
the exact sequence of events leading to development of diabetes may be
somewhat different, the signs of the disease and its treatment remain
very similar for both species.
Diabetes mellitus, or sugar diabetes, is a hormone disorder which
causes a persistent elevation of blood and urine sugar called glucose.
Persistent glucose elevations induce the signs of the disorder, which
are excess thirst and increased urination. Insulin therapy remains the
most common and effective treatment for cats and dogs with diabetes
mellitus. Insulin is a hormone normally produced by the body and
released into the bloodstream to prevent elevations of blood and urine
sugar. Insulin therapy involves the pet owner injecting the hormone
under the skin with a needle and syringe once or twice daily. There is
no form of insulin available that can be given by mouth or added to
the pets food.
Important facts regarding diabetes mellitus in pets:
1. With few exceptions, diabetes mellitus is a permanent disorder
which requires treatment for the rest of your pet's life.
2. With proper treatment, diabetes can be effectively controlled over
the normal lifespan of your pet. In addition to insulin therapy,
effective treatment may include strict diet and exercise regimens, use
of fiber-rich special diets, administration of oral hypoglycemic drugs
and frequent followups with your veterinarian.
3. Left untreated, diabetes mellitus can be fatal in pets.
Additionally, diabetes can cause cataracts, severe metabolic toxicity
(ketoacidosis), nerve and muscle weakness, rapid weight loss,
increased susceptibility to infection, and damage to the kidneys,
eyes, and brain.
A close cooperative effort with your veterinarian is critical to
successful regulation of your pet's diabetes. The number of and length
of visits to your veterinarian's hospital and the annual costs of your
pet's health bills will increase. What your pet gains from this
cooperative effort is good health with a minimally restrictive
lifestyle and a normal lifespan.
Treatment of a pet with diabetes is not easy and certainly not
practical for every pet owner.
Thanks to Southpaws.