Not So Sweet: Diabetes in Pets

What is diabetes in pets?

Diabetes mellitus occurs when a pet’s body doesn’t produce enough insulin (i.e., Type 1 diabetes) or doesn’t properly respond to insulin (i.e., Type 2 diabetes). Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, and pets with diabetes cannot properly regulate their blood glucose. Persistently high blood sugar can damage organs, nerves, and tissues, making early diagnosis and management critical for long-term health.

What are the signs of diabetes in pets?

Signs that may indicate your pet has diabetes include:

• Increased thirst and urination — Increased thirst and urination are hallmark signs of diabetes in pets. Elevated blood sugar levels mean the kidneys must work overtime to remove excess glucose, resulting in increased water loss through the urine. To compensate for this fluid loss, diabetic pets often drink more water. If your pet needs more frequent potty breaks or you notice they are emptying their water bowl faster than normal, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.
• Increased hunger and weight loss — Diabetic pets may have an increased appetite but lose weight because, without adequate insulin, their body can’t effectively use glucose for energy. As a result, diabetic pets may feel constantly hungry and consume more food but still lose weight as their bodies break down muscle and fat for energy. If your pet seems unusually ravenous or loses weight despite eating well, consult your veterinarian.
• Lethargy and weakness — Diabetes can cause your pet to feel weak, lethargic, and less interested in physical activity. You may notice your dog or cat sleeping more, showing less enthusiasm for walks or playtime, or being less alert than usual. Lethargy can also signal other underlying health conditions and requires a veterinary evaluation.
• Cloudy eyes or vision changes — In dogs, diabetes often leads to cataracts, which may cause their eyes to appear cloudy and obstruct their vision. When blood glucose isn’t effectively regulated, excess glucose enters the eye’s lens, causing it to swell and become cloudy. A cataract ultimately forms, which can develop quickly in diabetic dogs and may lead to partial or complete blindness. If your pet’s eyes are cloudy or you believe they’re having difficulty seeing, contact your veterinarian.
• Recurring infections — Bacteria thrive in sugar-rich environments, which makes diabetic pets prone to infections. Urinary tract infections are especially common and, left untreated, may progress to kidney infections. If you notice signs such as frequent urination, straining, or blood in the urine, seek veterinary care for your pet to address potential underlying issues.

How is diabetes in pets diagnosed?

Diagnosing diabetes usually involves a blood test to measure blood glucose levels and a urine test to check for glucose. Additional tests may also be conducted to assess long-term glucose control. Early diagnosis is key to managing diabetes successfully and preventing complications.

How is diabetes in pets managed?

Managing diabetic pets requires a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and monitoring to keep blood glucose levels stable and reduce complications.

Common management approaches include:

• Insulin therapy — Insulin injections, which are the cornerstone of diabetes treatment, are typically given daily to replace the insulin no longer produced by your pet’s body. Your veterinarian will determine the correct dose based on your pet’s needs.
• Dietary management — Diabetic pets benefit from a balanced, low-carbohydrate diet to help regulate blood sugar levels. High-fiber diets are often recommended for dogs, while high-protein, low-carb diets are typically better for cats.
• Exercise — Regular, moderate exercise helps manage blood glucose by improving insulin sensitivity. Consistent exercise routines can prevent large blood sugar fluctuations.
• Oral medications — For some cats, an oral medication can help reduce blood glucose by preventing glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. Newly diagnosed diabetic cats who are otherwise healthy are the best candidates for this treatment.
• Regular monitoring — Routine blood glucose testing is necessary to track your pet’s treatment response and keep their glucose at safe levels.

Early diagnosis and consistent management are essential for keeping diabetes under control and helping your pet enjoy a longer and healthier life by your side. Contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian today to schedule your pet’s diabetes screening.