Animals as likely to develop diabetes as owners

DIABETES is not a condition most people associate with animals –yet the reality is, our four-legged friends are as much at risk of developing the condition as we are.

Last year, the PDSA treated more than 2,300 pets across the UK with the condition, as well as teaching their owners how to care for them to ensure a good quality of life, despite their illness.

The simple fact is, while most people have heard of diabetes, few would know exactly what to do if their pet was diagnosed with it.

Diabetes mellitus is a disease which affects the body's ability to control sugar levels in the bloodstream. It can affect both cats and dogs and is more common in pets that are overweight.

Senior veterinary surgeon Andrew Hogg said: "If an animal is diagnosed with diabetes, owners have to be prepared to stick to a routine, which will include daily injections.

"Of course, we go through this with them – they are not just left to get on with it."

The symptoms of diabetes can include excessive thirst, increased appetite and more frequent urinating.

If it is left untreated, the condition can cause pets to lose weight, vomit, become lethargic, and in severe cases, even go blind.

Andrew said: "Thirst is one of the main signs. Pets can also often be really hungry, but still lose weight."

He advises owners of pets showing any of the typical diabetes symptoms to make an appointment with their vet as soon as possible.

Pets will need to be examined, as there could be other reasons for their ill-health, and vets will usually ask to obtain a urine sample to test for sugar.

A blood sample might also be taken to check glucose levels and to rule out other conditions.

If a pet is diagnosed with diabetes, a vet will discuss the various treatment options with the owner and in order to manage the condition successfully, the pet will need to have regular check-ups.

Some pets need daily insulin injections to control their diabetes – just like people. If this is the case, a vet will explain how and when to give the injections.

Some owners will understandably be apprehensive about giving their pet injections, but most get used to it very quickly and soon do not think twice about doing it.

Andrew said: "We always give owners support."

The key to managing a diabetic pet is to control and monitor its diet carefully and special commercial diets are available which ensure they get the right amount of the nutrients they need.

Extra treats must not be given, unless they are approved by a vet, and diabetic animals must continue to have regular moderate exercise every day, which vets can again offer advice on.

For more free advice and information on pet health visit www.pdsa.org.uk.