Canine Diabetes
There are two types of canine diabetes called as diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus is the result of a lack of vasopressin, which is a hormone that checks water re-absorption by the kidneys. However, it is the deficiency of insulin, which is a hormone in charge of sugar metabolism, that causes diabetes mellitus.
Another division of diabetes mellitus makes two major categories - A congenital type and an acquired type, which are similar to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in humans respectively. Most diabetes mellitus in dogs is Type 2, also known as IDDM (Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus).
IDDM normally affects dogs between six and nine years of age. Reproductive hormones place neutered female dogs at a greater disadvantage of becoming diabetic. Keeshond, Miniature Pinschers and Cain Terriers have a genetic tendency to get IDDM whereas Miniature Schnauzers, Beagles and Poodles have a very high probability of developing canine diabetes.
Immune deficiencies that damage the pancreas, viral and pancreatic infections, Cushing's disease, and reproductive or steroid hormones, also trigger IDDM in canines.
Symptoms and Treatment of Canine Diabetes:
The symptoms that mark the onset of canine diabetes are polyphagia (unnecessary hunger), polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (excessive urination). If canine diabetes remains untreated, the dog tends to lose weight, because the body gets energy by breaking down proteins and fats. Loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting and depression will set in. Affected dogs cannot counter fungal and bacterial infections and may acquire cataracts, or bladder and liver problems.
The diagnosis of canine diabetes includes assessment of the early symptoms, a thorough physical study, and laboratory tests to determine the glucose level in the urine and the blood. The urine may also contain ketones, which are organic compounds that the liver creates in the event of insulin deficiency. Excessive ketone formation causes keto-acidosis, which is a harsh and serious condition.
Insulin injections are part of canine diabetes treatment. Short-acting insulins are efficient, and often find use in regulating the glucose level in dogs with keto-acidosis. Medium-acting insulins work for at least 24 hours while long-range insulins work up to 28 hours.
An owner needs to visit a vet to study the pet dog's condition and for periodic blood tests. The type and amount of insulin for every dog depends on the stage of canine diabetes and body structure. Owners have to know not only the method to store the insulin correctly but also that of giving injections. Vets have to prescribe the specific type of insulin and give information about insulin storage and injections.
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