National Pet Diabetes Month: Raising Awareness

November is National Pet Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness among pet owners and veterinarians about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes in pets. Diabetes interferes with insulin production and metabolism, preventing food from being converted into energy. This results in excess sugar in the bloodstream, leading to a range of health issues, from lethargy to chronic infections. 

To help ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life, we’re outlining the risk factors, early warning signs, and treatment options for pet diabetes. 

Risk Factors for Diabetes 

Pet diabetes affects approximately 1 in 300 adult dogs and 1 in 230 cats in the U.S. Several factors can increase a pet’s risk: 

• Age: Dogs over 7 years and cats over 6 years are at higher risk.

• Weight: Obesity significantly raises the risk for both dogs and cats. 

• Long-term Medications: Certain medications, particularly corticosteroids, can increase diabetes risk. 

• Breed: Some breeds, such as Samoyeds, miniature schnauzers, miniature poodles, and pugs, are more likely to develop diabetes. 

Signs of Diabetes 

The American Veterinary Medical Association has identified several early warning signs of diabetes. If you notice any of these behaviors in your pet, please contact us: 

• Excessive thirst and increased urination 

• Unexplained weight loss 

• Decreased appetite 

• Clouded eyes, especially in dogs 

• Chronic or recurring infections, such as skin or urinary tract infections 

Diagnosis and Treatment for Diabetes 

If we suspect your pet has diabetes, we will If we suspect your cat has diabetes, we will conduct a baseline blood test and urinalysis. Additional tests may be recommended to rule out other medical conditions. 

Once diagnosed, we will collaborate with you to determine the best treatment plan to monitor your pet’s blood sugar levels and maintain them within a healthy range. Every case is unique, and our team is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and support you need to make informed decisions for your beloved pet. 

We are honored to help keep the dogs and cats in our community thriving. If you have concerns about your pet’s health or need to schedule a wellness checkup, our team at Norwich Regional Animal Hospital is here to help! Book an appointment or call us at (802) 296-2273 today.