Canine Diabetes - What Every Dog Owner Needs To Know About These Five Complications

Has your pet been diagnosed with diabetes in canines?  Is so, you need to know about these complications that often go along with diabetes in canines.  Diabetes is a complex disease, and the more information you have, the better you’ll be able to care for your companion.

1. Cataracts In Dogs

It’s a sad fact that the vast majority of canine diabetics will develop cataracts within a year of being diagnosed.As the lenses in the eyes gradually become cloudy and opaque, he’ll lose his vision.  This is due to high glucose blood levels that affect every organ in his body.  

Once your pet’s blood sugar levels are stablized, which usually takes at least three months, cataract surgery is an option.Most dogs weather the surgery successfully and regain their sight.  

2. Uveitis And Glaucoma

Uveitis is caused when the lenses in the eyes leak protein into the eyeball, which causes severe inflammation.  This is a complication of cataracts.  It must be treated right away, or it can progress into glaucoma, which causes permanent vision loss.  A detached retina can occur, too.

Unfortunately, if a pet develops uveitis, cataract surgery isn’t an option any more, since there is a much higher chance of complications.

3. Increased Susceptibility To Infections

Your pet may be subject to recurring infections.As blood sugar levels rise, so do bacteria levels. A vicious cycle results, as higher levels of bacteria then cause an increase in blood sugar levels.

Urinary tract infections, prostrate infections, pneumonia, and skin conditions are commonly seen in dogs with diabetes.  It’s essential to monitor your pet’s health to keep an infection from gaining a foothold.

4. Diabetic Neuropathy

This complication is a lot more common in cats, but it can happen in diabetic dogs, too.  In fact, this is sometimes the first symptom of a diabetic canine that the owner notices.Your companion’s back legs may be getting weaker due to the aging process.  He could have diabetes in dogs.  

The good news is that, in dogs, this condition is usually reversible once the glucose sugar levels are normalized.

5. Diabetic Ketoacidosis In Dogs

This is a severe, life-threatening complication that results from high blood sugar levels.Don’t let your pert suffer from these complications; know the symptoms of canine diabetes.

Symptoms include:

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Losing weight even though he’s eating ravenously
• Sudden blindness
• Weakness
• Vomiting and dehydration
• Breath smells like acetone (similar to nail polish remover)

A dog with diabetes can develop ketoacidosis very quickly, in as little as a week.  It can be fatal, but most canines will survive with the proper treatment.

The Best Cure Is Prevention

Diabetes in dogs can be prevented.The best means of prevention is to keep your pet’s weight under control.  Feed him a high-fiber, low-fat diet, and cut out the treats and table scraps.   

Regular exercise is an excellent way to keep his blood sugar levels under control.Your dog needs a couple of long walks every day in order to keep him in shape, and burn off extra calories as well.

Studies have shown that certain herbs and dietary supplements found in natural remedies for dogs can help to control blood sugar levels.Sadly, most diets are lacking in chromium, even though it’s essential for this reason.  

Want to learn more?  Click on any link in this article for more information on preventing and treating canine diabetes with a safe and effective natural remedy.