Understanding Pet Diabetes

Pet diabetes, or diabetes mellitus, is a metabolic condition that happens when the pancreas does not create sufficient amounts of insulin for the body to use sugars, proteins, and fats for fuel. It's a condition found in pets that are overweight, older, or on a medication known to cause diabetes. At Dessau Veterinary Clinic in Austin, we can you and your pet manage his or her diabetes at our vet clinic.

How Pets Develop Diabetes

There are a few ways in which cats and dogs can develop diabetes. Age and genetics are a factor, but obesity is a strong contributor to pet diabetes. Obesity creates insulin-resistant cells that prevent the pancreas from working properly, resulting in Type II diabetes. Type II diabetes is reversible with diet, exercise, and weight loss. Sometimes, a pet develops diabetes with no discernable cause. Various problems, such as damage from pancreatitis, can cause the pancreas to stop producing insulin cells. This condition results in Type I diabetes and cannot be reversed once it begins. Dogs are more prone to developing Type I diabetes while cats are more prone to Type II. Both cats and dogs can develop either type of diabetic conditions.

Managing Pet Diabetes

If your pet is diagnosed with diabetes, our team will provide you with the information and materials you will need to monitor your pet's blood sugar levels and give him or her insulin injections. Our veterinarians will also advise you on changes in your pet's diet, and what kind of exercise is best for your pet's body-condition and age.

Call Us Today at Our Animal Hospital in Austin for an Appointment

Get in touch with us at Dessau Veterinary Clinic to see how we can help with your pet’s diabetes. Our team will examine your pet and determine what type of treatment is best for him or her. Fill out our online form to make an appointment or call our office at 512-339-3177. Find out how we can help today.