Risks of Canine Diabetes

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An Overview of Canine Diabetes

Canine diabetes caused by a deficiency of insulin, a hormone that regulates how sugars are absorbed in the body, and are utilized by the related cells and tissues of the body. This illness is usually found in dogs between the ages of five and seven years old. Female dogs are more susceptible candidates to the condition. Weight is also a significant factor, as more heavy set dogs are usually affected. There are two types of canine diabetes:

• Type I canine diabetes (diabetes mellitus type I) is caused by an insufficient production of insulin by the pancreas. This deficiency is usually due to an insufficient number of insulin producing cells. Type I is not able to be prevented, and a dog with Type I canine diabetes will require insulin injections for the rest of its life.
• Type II canine diabetes (diabetes mellitus type II) is the result of a resistance to insulin. Older, obese dogs are more susceptible to Type II diabetes as fat cells may become resistant to insulin. Unlike Type I canine diabetes, Type II can be prevented through weight control, diet and exercise, and may not need life long insulin injections.

The Risk Factors of Canine Diabetes

There are several factors that may contribute to the increased chance of canine diabetes. Certain factors that can contribute are:

• Feeding patterns
• Exercise
• Body condition
• Weight

There are also other factors such as spaying a female dog, as unspayed dogs may be at a higher risk. A dog's breed may also be a contributing factor. Dog breeds such asCairn Terriers, Keeshonds and Pulis are genetically predisposed to the development of the condition. Canine diabetes may also be sett of by various infectious viral diseases and immune deficiencies.

The Dangers of Not Treating Canine Diabetes

Canine diabetes is a serious health problem for dogs. If left untreated, the condition can lead to several serious health risks including:

• Blindness
• Heart Disease
• Kidney damage
• Death

Canine diabetes must be treated as soon as it is diagnosed to lessen such health risks.

Check with a Veterinarian for Treatment

Checking with your veterinarian to properly diagnose what type of diabetes your dog has, as well as the proper means to treat it. Taking steps to treat the condition will not only help to keep a dog's symptoms under control, but will allow the dog to live a normal and healthy life.

Sources:

http://www.ehow.com/how_2092389_treat-canine-diabetes.html

http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/full/136/7/1985S

http://www.ehow.com/how_2092389_treat-canine-diabetes.html

Photo Credit: Emar