PET Clinic

The onus is on the owner

Dogs and cats can develop diabetes, too; and while this condition is incurable it can be controlled by regular injections of insulin or a strict diet. But management is the key: Pet owners must strictly follow the regime recommended by their vet

CHOMPOO TRAKULLERTSATHIEN

Diabetes mellitus, to give it its full name, occurs when the pancreas is not releasing enough of the protein hormone insulin to control the amount of glucose in the body, causing blood-sugar levels to soar. A damaged or dysfunctional pancreas is often the reason, but in some cases changes in the levels of other hormones or the taking of certain drugs can also impair insulin production and lead to diabetes.

As it affects more and more humans at ever younger ages, the basic facts about diabetes have become widely known. Not many people are aware that their feline and canine housemates are also at risk of developing this debilitating and potentially life-threatening condition.

The risk factors, according to local vet Wachirachai Warinlai, are diverse. Diabetes can be found in cats and dogs from the age of eight onwards. Certain breeds of dog - including poodles, pugs, Samoyeds (aka bjelkiers) and miniature schnauzers - and all breeds of cats are susceptible but neutered tomcats and female dogs are particularly prone to it.

Obesity, deficiencies in diet and stress are the most common triggers.

The symptoms aren't difficult to spot. The animal drinks water more frequently and urinates more copiously than usual. It will eat more, but not gain appreciably in weight, may vomit and, in some cases, may lose its appetite altogether. It will get tired easily and appear listless.

Although diabetes can't be cured it can be controlled. If left untreated, it can lead to other complications like cataracts.

Normally, the condition is diagnosed through blood and urine tests. Diabetes mellitus can be divided into two types: insulin-dependent (IDDM) and non-insulin-dependent (NIDDM). The former is more common in animals and the only treatment is regular injections of insulin. Normally, the vet will advise pet owners to leave their dog or cat at the clinic for a week or so, during which time the vet will adjust the amount of insulin administered until he/she works out the optimum dose. Thereafter the owner takes over, giving the injections at home following the vet's instructions on frequency.

Since dogs and cats with the second type of diabetes are still able to produce some insulin, the best way to treat NIDDM is by strictly controlling the animal's weight. Vets usually recommend a medium- to high-fibre diet which slows the rate at which glucose is absorbed by the intestines, thus reducing the quantity circulating in the bloodstream.

Diabetic animals needs to be fed at regular intervals to keep their insulin levels stabilised. Dr Wachirachai stressed the need for pet owners to strictly adhere to the directions given by their vet on the frequency of injections and the timing, composition and size of meals. The diet must be followed to the letter; he warned owners not to give in to the temptation to indulge their pets with "special treats" or to increase the quantity of food. There is no limit on the amount of water the animal can drink, so make sure some is always readily available.

For the rest of its life the animal will need to have blood and urine tests every two to three years to monitor its blood-sugar levels.

And owners need to be constantly on the look out for any abnormal behaviour: Very low blood-sugar levels can precipitate a medical emergency. If the animal seems constantly listless and lacking in energy; if it staggers on rising to its feet; if its body seems tight/constricted or its legs unusually stiff; and, especially, if it goes into spasm or loses consciousness - here's what to do: Immediately feed the animal with honey or concentrated syrup or some other sweet substance; if it is already unconscious, put some on its tongue and smear some around its gums. Then get the animal to the vet's clinic without delay.

By being vigilant and strictly following the procedures for managing diabetes, owners can ensure that their beloved cat or dog will be around for many more years to come.

Bangkok Post

Last Updated : Sunday April 08, 2007