Diabetes Mellitus is a disease that interferes with the body's use of blood sugar, or glucose. Glucose is the body's fuel and is required for life.
Normally, a hormone called insulin allows the body to absorb and use glucose derived from food in the digestive tract. Insulin is a hormone produced by special cells of the pancreas, an internal organ.
Insulin dependent diabetics often need to receive a supplemental hormone, usually in the form of injections, to properly absorb glucose.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, examination findings and blood tests.
Treatment usually involves insulin injections, special food and strict feeding schedules. Without insulin replacement, more serious changes occur within the body that leads to diabetic coma and death. There is no known cure. Therefore, control of Diabetes Mellitus is the prime objective. Diabetic pets need routine blood sugar level checks and internal organ monitoring.
- Use all medications as directed by your veterinarian.
- Insulin administration schedules should be carefully followed for best results.
- If a special diet has been prescribed for your pet to help manage blood glucose fluctuations, it is important to follow the strict feeding schedules as outlined by your pet’s veterinarian.
- Ensure that your pet has access to fresh water at all times.
- Monitor your pet's progress carefully and have him/her rechecked as directed by your veterinarian.
- Monitor your pet closely for any change in water intake or urination habits. Call the medical team if changes occur.
- If your pet becomes depressed, has a change in appetite or vomits, have him or her rechecked immediately.
If you have questions about this or any medical topic, please contact your Banfield hospital today.