Has your pet been diagnosed with canine diabetes? Is so, you need to know about these complications that often go along with diabetes in dogs. Diabetes is a complex disease, and the more information you have, the better you'll be able to care for your companion.
1. Cataracts In Dogs
It's a sad fact that the vast majority of canine diabetics will develop cataracts within a year of being diagnosed. The lenses of his eyes will gradually become cloudy and opaque, which causes him to lose his vision. This is due to high blood glucose levels that affect every organ in his body.
Once your pet's blood sugar levels are stabilized, which usually takes at least three months, cataract surgery is an option. Most dogs do quite well with the surgery and regain their vision.
2. Uveitis And Glaucoma
Uveitis is caused when the lenses in the eyes leak protein into the eyeball, which causes severe inflammation. This is a complication of cataracts. It must be treated right away, or it can progress into glaucoma, which causes permanent vision loss. A detached retina can occur, too.
Unfortunately, if a pet develops uveitis, cataract surgery isn't an option any more, since there is a much higher chance of complications.
3. Increased Susceptibility To Infections
Your pet may be subject to recurring infections. It's a vicious cycle; in a nutshell, high blood glucose levels provide plenty of food for bacteria, and then higher levels of bacteria cause higher blood sugar levels.
Urinary tract infections, prostrate infections, pneumonia, and skin conditions are commonly seen in dogs with diabetes. It's essential to monitor your pet's health to keep an infection from gaining a foothold.
4. Diabetic Neuropathy
This complication is a lot more common in cats, but it can happen in dogs, too. In fact, this is sometimes the first symptom of a diabetic canine that the owner notices. If your companion's back legs seem to be getting weak, it might not be because he's getting older. He could have diabetes in dogs.
The good news is that, in dogs, this condition is usually reversible once the blood sugar levels are normalized.
5. Diabetic Ketoacidosis In Dogs
This is a severe, life-threatening complication that results from high blood sugar levels. It's important for all dog owners to know the symptoms of canine diabetes so this doesn't happen to their pets.
Symptoms include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Losing weight even though he's eating ravenously
- Sudden blindness
- Weakness
- Vomiting and dehydration
- Breath smells like acetone (similar to nail polish remover)
A dog with diabetes can develop ketoacidosis very quickly, in as little as a week. It can be fatal, but most canines will survive with the proper treatment.
The Best Cure Is Prevention
Diabetes in dogs can be prevented. The best way to do this is by keeping your pet's weight under control. Feed him a high-fiber, low-fat diet, and cut out the treats and table scraps.
Regular exercise is an excellent way to keep his blood sugar levels under control. A long walk, morning and evening, will help to keep him in shape, and burn off extra calories as well.
Studies have shown that certain herbs and dietary supplements found in natural remedies for dogs can help to control blood sugar levels. Chromium is essential for this reason, but sadly, most diets don't contain enough of this mineral.
Don't wait any longer to protect your pet from this dread disease. With diet, exercise, and herbs for dogs, you can prevent canine diabetes.
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