08/11/2024
💉 Pet Diabetes awareness Month (November) 💉
When it comes to the signs of diabetes in pets, here are some things to look out for:
💧 Excessive thirst and frequent urination. (Notice how often you refill water bowls).
🧹Weight loss. (Your pet might be eating but dropping the kg's due to their body’s inability to absorb nutrients).
👀 Cloudy eyes. (This is especially the case in dogs).
🥴 Chronic or recurring infections. (This includes skin infections and urinary infections).
As with many health conditions, early detection diabetes in dogs and cats is key since this means swift treatment that can help your pet have the best quality of life.
🍪 Pet obesity is a major health issue today, with those extra kilos raising the risk of diabetes and other health problems in both dogs and cats.
🐾 For instance, obese cats are four times more likely to develop diabetes. And beyond diabetes, pet obesity often leads to other health concerns, emphasising the need to keep our pets at a healthy weight.
🗣 Rising rates: Over 40% of dogs and 30% of cats in Australia are now overweight or obese, showing a clear trend in pet weight gain.
🐕 Breed-specific risks: Some breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, are more prone to weight gain, so owners need to take extra care with diet and exercise.
👶🏼 Health-first mindset: Though a chubby pet may look adorable, carrying extra weight poses serious risks to their health.
😴 Obesity can lead to joint issues, low energy, respiratory problems, heart issues, high blood pressure, and reduced quality of life, with diabetes being a common consequence.
📈 Regular six-month glucose curves are essential for managing diabetes in pets. By tracking blood sugar levels throughout the day, veterinarians can fine-tune insulin doses to keep glucose stable and prevent complications like cataracts, kidney issues, and nerve damage. These check-ups help catch any changes due to age, stress, or diet, supporting a healthier, more comfortable life for diabetic pets.
If you're worried about your CHONKY fur baby, call us on 55023 686 to book an appointment.