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Diabetes Mellitus
hat is Diabetes Mellitus?
Diabetes Mellitus, commonly called Diabetes, results from a decrease in the amount of insulin in the body.
Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas (an organ near the stomach). This hormone is needed by
tissues of the body to enable them to absorb glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream, which provides energy
for the body. What is the cause of Diabetes? In most cases, the cause is unknown. Obesity, genetic factors, some drugs
and toxins, hormonal imbalances, and pancreatic diseases can all affect production and secretion of insulin.
When the body does not have enough insulin, it cannot use the glucose in the bloodstream and the body
becomes deprived of its energy. Although the amount of glucose in the blood is much higher than normal, it
is unable to enter the bodies cells without the aid of insulin. Since the body is unable to utilize glucose for
energy, it begins to break down stores of protein and fat for energy. What are the signs of Diabetes? The body attempts to compensate for its cellular lack of glucose by
increasing appetite. Since the body is forced to use fat and protein for energy, this process often results in
weight loss.
The high blood glucose level causes the body to produce more urine, and as a result, the pet drinks more
water. Depression and fatigue are also common signs of diabetes. Liver, kidney, and eye diseases often
develop later. Ketoacidosis, a diabetic emergency, sometimes occurs, causing sudden collapse, shock,
vomiting and difficulty breathing.
What is the treatment for Diabetes? Adequate management of diabetes requires lifelong treatment. Your
Veterinarian will prescribe daily injections of insulin, along with a carefully controlled diet and exercise plan.
Initially, the correct dosage of insulin is determined while the pet is hospitalized. After your pet has returned
home, your Veterinarian will schedule routine blood and urine tests to monitor the glucose and ketone levels.
Slight adjustments may be made in you pet’s medication dosage. As in human diabetic patients, careful monitoring of your pet’s diet and physical activities are a necessary
part in the successful management of this disease.
Overdosage of insulin can cause the blood glucose level to drop too low. This will deprive the brain of
needed glucose and will result in weakness and incoordination; it may progress to convulsions, coma and
death if not corrected immediately. Underdoage of insulin may result in a return of clinical signs. You may notice increased urination and
thirst, increased appetite, weight loss and fatigue. Diabetes can be managed successfully, with frequent blood and urine testing as well as
your diligent care at home. Complete Care from Head to Tail