Diabetes
Description: Diabetes mellitus - An endocrine condition in which the animal has high blood sugar. This is caused by either a deficiency to produce insulin or because the body's cells do not properly utilize insulin.
Diabetes can be one of two types, just as in humans. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is a chronic disease where the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to help control blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes requires insulin shots and careful monitoring of blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is adult-onset diabetes and is non-insulin dependent.
Diagnosis: Most animals are diagnosed with Type 1. Diagnosis is conducted with a medical history check, physical exam, blood count, blood glucose test, and urine analysis. Sometimes an abdominal xray may be needed if pancreatitis is suspected.
Treatment: Treatment includes one or two insulin injections per day. If not treated, organ failure, urinary tract infections, hormone disturbances, and weight loss. Exercise is also beneficial for animals with diabetes.
Breeds prone to Diabetes include:
Pet Health Information
