📞 Internal medicine doctors in Vantaa: 010 739 9130
Canine diabetes (diabetes mellitus) is a generalizing disease similar to type 1 diabetes in humans. A dog's pancreas stops producing insulin, causing blood sugar to rise dangerously high.
If left untreated, diabetes is life-threatening, but with the right treatment, a diabetic dog can live a normal, joyful life for years.
Main symptom: Drinking and peeing
The classic symptom of diabetes is PU/PD (polyuria/polydipsia), that is, increased urination and drinking.
- The dog drinks the cup of water empty in an instant and asks for more.
- A dog that has been indoor clean begins to pee inside or is unable to hold back for the duration of the working day.
- Urine is pale and comes out in large quantities.
Other symptoms:
- Weight loss: The dog will lose weight even if it eats well (or even greedily). The body cannot make good use of food without insulin.
- Cataracts: The dog quickly goes blind when the lenses become cloudy under the influence of sugar.
How is diabetes treated?
Canine diabetes requires commitment from the owner, as the treatment is lifelong. At the animal hospital Sacrum, we teach the owner to do everything necessary at home.
1. Insulin injections
The dog is given insulin by injection under the skin once or twice a day, when feeding. Most dogs don't even notice a tiny needle.
2. Diet
A steady blood sugar level requires a regular feeding rhythm and high-quality, fiber-rich food.
3. Exercise
Regular exercise helps keep your sugar balance in check.
Do you suspect diabetes?
Bring the dog to the examinations Veterinary Hospital in Sacrum. The diagnosis is easily confirmed by a blood test and urine sample. The earlier the treatment is started, the better the dog's body (and eyesight) will be spared from damage.
📍 Porttisuontie 13, 01200 Vantaa
An epileptic seizure or seizure in a dog is a frightening situation. Read the instructions: what to do during a seizure and when to rush to the veterinarian on duty.
Does the dog's skin redden or a strange pate appeared on it? Learn how to treat a hot spot at home and when a skin change requires veterinary sampling.
Does your dog's breath smell bad? Read when bad breath can indicate tartar, gingivitis, or other oral diseases.
Feline HCM is a common and often asymptomatic heart disease. Identify signs of danger: difficulty breathing or sudden paralysis of the posterior end (thrombus, or blood clot).
Old dog can't walk? Don't assume it's just old age. Often the cause is treatable pain, a heart defect or a hormone problem.
Is your dog vomiting, tired, or experiencing abdominal pain? Read when the symptom might indicate pancreatitis and when a vet is needed.
