Note, These Are 6 Signs Of Your Pet Dog And Cats With Diabetes

Illustration (Alexander Grey/Pexels)

JAKARTA - Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that not only attacks humans but also animals. Pets such as cats and dogs can also get diabetes. This condition occurs when the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels is disturbed.

There are two main types of diabetes in pets, namely type 1 diabetes, which relies on insulin and type 2 diabetes, which does not depend on insulin. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of diabetes in pets is essential for diagnosis and early treatment.

These main signs and symptoms can help you understand their condition and take the necessary steps to ensure the health of your favorite animal.

One of the most common signs of diabetes in cats and dogs is an increase in thirst and urination. This is a condition known as polydipsia and polyuria. As pet blood sugar levels increase, the body seeks to remove excess glucose through urine. This causes them to drink excess water and more often, causing frequent urination. You may see more frequent drinking water bowls of your favorites empty quickly than ever before.

Dogs and cats with diabetes often show an unsatisfied appetite, a condition known as polyfagia. Despite eating more food than usual, they may experience weight loss due to the inability of the body to utilize digested foods and nutrients in them effectively. The unhealthy combination between increased appetite and increased weight loss is a characteristic symptom of diabetes in cats and dogs.

Weight loss is a common sign of diabetes in pets and is usually accompanied by increased appetite. The body's inability to use glucose for energy, along with breaking fat and muscle tissues, can lead to gradual weight loss. You have to monitor the weight of your pet effectively and look for veterinary care if you see drastic weight loss. Because this can indicate underlying medical problems, including diabetes.

Cats and dogs with diabetes often experience sluggishness and weakness as their bodies do not receive enough energy from food due to increased blood sugar levels. Pets will appear less active and enthusiastic than usual. In addition, it can be seen from the reduced interest in playing and exercising. If your pet, which was previously agile and excited, looks lethargic and is not interested in playing anymore, it may be a sign of diabetes.

Some cats and dogs with diabetes usually show changes in the way of walking and mobility. This is especially seen in dogs, where they often look weak and difficult to walk. This condition may be misinterpreted as joint inflammation, but it is important to consider diabetes as a potential cause, especially if pets show other symptoms mentioned above. Diabetes can affect the nervous system, causing neuropathy, which can result in unstable movement and lifestyle changes.

Cataracts, a condition that causes cloudy eye lenses, are common complications of diabetes in cats and dogs. Cataric development can lead to gradual decrease of vision, making it difficult to see clearly. As a pet owner, you may start to pay attention to the membranes of blueness or grayness in the eyes of pets, which indicates the formation of cataracts. If not treated, the cataract can eventually turn completely blind.

You as the owner should also remember that managing diabetes in pets requires consistent treatment and routine examinations of veterinarians. Diabetes mellitus can be treated and early detection is essential for their welfare.

Type 1 diabetes usually requires insulin injections, careful controld diets, and sports patterns. Type 2 diabetics may benefit from oral gluopage drugs. Early diagnosis must be well regulated through proper diet control, exercise and weight management. If conditions continue, insulin therapy may be needed in addition to diet and exercise.