Understanding Pet Diabetes

Understanding Pet Diabetes

What is Pet Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus in pets, similar to humans, is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to either insufficient insulin production (Type 1) or insulin resistance (Type 2). In dogs, Type 1 diabetes is more common and typically results from an autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells. Cats, on the other hand, are more prone to Type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to obesity and insulin resistance.

Common Symptoms in Dogs and Cats

Recognizing the signs of diabetes early can improve clinical outcomes. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Polyuria (Excessive urination): Increased glucose in the blood leads to osmotic diuresis, resulting in excessive urination.
• Polydipsia (Excessive thirst): Increased urine output triggers increased thirst as the body attempts to compensate for fluid loss.
• Polyphagia (Increased appetite): Despite eating more, diabetic pets often lose weight due to inefficient glucose utilization.
• Weight loss: The inability to properly metabolize glucose forces the body to break down fats and proteins for energy.
• Lethargy: Diabetic pets often exhibit decreased energy levels due to poor glucose metabolism.
• Recurrent infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs), skin infections, and poor wound healing are common in diabetic pets due to hyperglycemia’s impact on immune function.
• Cataracts (in dogs): Diabetic cataracts develop due to excessive glucose in the lens, leading to lens opacity and vision impairment.

Why Glucose Monitoring is Crucial

Consistent glucose monitoring is vital for managing diabetes effectively. Traditional methods involve intermittent blood glucose measurements, which can be stressful for both pets and owners. However, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provides real-time insights into glucose trends, allowing veterinarians to:

• Adjust insulin dosages more accurately.
• Detect hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic events promptly.
• Reduce the need for frequent blood sampling.
• Improve overall quality of life for diabetic pets.

With advancements in veterinary technology, CGMs like the Adapet Pet CGM are transforming diabetes management by offering non-invasive, continuous glucose tracking tailored for pets.