National Pet Diabetes Month is observed in November to raise awareness among pet owners and veterinarians on how to prevent, diagnose, and treat diabetes in pets.

Early diagnosis and treatment can enhance the quality of life and help prevent the consequences of chronically high blood sugar.

“Diabetes is almost exactly the same in humans as in animals, pets are also very hungry when they have diabetes because their body cannot use the glucose in the blood,” said Vets@Haldon’s Dr Thomas Ferreira.

Bloemfontein vet says feeding our pets food from our plates can cause obesity. Photo supplied

“In animals, the diabetes treatment differs, most dogs are considered type one, and 50 percent of cats. The first line is to inject insulin until the blood glucose is under control then we can focus on the diet and also include exercise.”

We try to prevent the disease by preventing obesity in our pets and trying to get regular exercise, we should also not try to feed food from our plates to our animals as that causes severe obesity, said the Bloemfontein vet.

Diabetes may affect dogs and cats at any age, but most dogs with diabetes are diagnosed between the ages of seven and ten, and the majority of cats with diabetes are older than six.

Signs pet owners should look out for

• Chronic recurring infections including skin and urinary tract infections
• Cloudy eyes because of cataracts, especially in dogs
• Excessive drinking and increased urination
• Deteriorating coat, dog fur can become dull and cats may stop grooming
• Losing weight, although your pet has an appetite

The SPCA explains that diabetes typically requires lifelong care for dogs and many cats. Fortunately, some cats may be able to reverse their diabetes with the right care, eliminating the need for blood sugar-controlling medication.

Common signs to look out for as a pet owner. Photo supplied

If your pet has a deteriorating coat or your cat stops grooming could be a sign of diabetes. Photo: 

How to manage diabetes in pets

• Monitor your pet’s blood and urine glucose levels, as recommended by your veterinarian
• Ensure your pet maintains a normal appetite
• Maintain your pet’s medication and feeding schedules
• Take them for daily walks
• Keep an eye out for signs of complications

“As with any disease, if diagnosed early, it increases the lifespan of your pet. We recommend it’s best to take your pet for regular check-ups at your vet normally once a year for vaccinations and to discuss the well-being of your pet and any abnormal things you have noticed,” said Ferreira.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh