Understanding Diabetes in Dogs Symptoms Shaking and Management

Diabetes in dogs can be a challenging condition to manage, but understanding the symptoms is key to providing the best care for your furry friend.

Shaking is a common symptom of diabetes in dogs, especially in the morning after a night of fasting.

If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as cataracts, urinary tract infections, and even seizures.

Dogs with diabetes often experience increased thirst and urination due to high blood sugar levels.

Managing diabetes in dogs requires a combination of diet, exercise, and medication.

Dogs with low blood sugar may exhibit a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. One of the earliest signs is lethargy, which can manifest as low energy or listlessness.

Some common symptoms of hypoglycemia in dogs include loss of appetite, loss of coordination, weakness, increased thirst, and increased urination. These symptoms can be subtle at first, but if left untreated, they can progress to more serious signs like seizures and collapse.

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Here are some specific symptoms to look out for:

It's worth noting that some symptoms, like restlessness and shivering, can be mistaken for other conditions, such as myoclonus muscle jerks or spasms, which are usually harmless. However, if you suspect that your dog is experiencing hypoglycemia, it's essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for your dog's overall health. Obesity can make cells resistant to insulin, but it's unclear whether it actually causes diabetes in dogs.

An unhealthy weight is a significant risk factor for pancreatitis, which can lead to diabetes. Pancreatitis is a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Keeping your dog at a healthy weight can help prevent pancreatitis and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to achieving a healthy weight.

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Shivers and tremors can be a concerning symptom in dogs. Some common causes of shivers and tremors include seizures and epilepsy, which can be a serious condition that requires immediate attention.

Seizures are a type of episode where a dog loses consciousness, and they can be caused by a variety of factors, including low blood sugar. In fact, seizures are one of the symptoms of hypoglycemia in dogs, along with lethargy, loss of appetite, and restlessness.

Other potential causes of shivers and tremors in dogs include myoclonus muscle jerks or spasms, which are usually harmless if they don't occur while the dog is awake. However, if your dog is experiencing seizures or other concerning symptoms, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Some symptoms to look out for include lethargy, loss of appetite, restlessness, increased thirst and urination, shivering, and seizures. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's crucial to seek veterinary attention right away.

Here are some things that might get confused with tremors:

A veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam to diagnose hypoglycemia in dogs, followed by a measurement of the current blood glucose value using a glucometer.

The ideal blood glucose value is 3.3-6.1 mmol/L, and any reading lower than this indicates hypoglycemia. Additional blood tests may be performed to evaluate organ function and other blood-related conditions.

If the cause of hypoglycemia is suspected to be related to cancer or tumour growth, an ultrasound may be performed.

Treatment for hypoglycemia in dogs aims to correct the hypoglycemic crisis by raising blood sugar levels. Initial treatment may involve rubbing glucose or corn syrup on the gums, or intravenous fluid infusion containing concentrated dextrose.

Ongoing treatment will focus on managing the underlying cause of disease, which may involve surgery, medical management, or supportive treatment.

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Dogs can develop two main forms of diabetes: insulin-deficiency diabetes (IDD) and insulin-resistance diabetes (IRD).

The UK's Royal Veterinary College identifies these two forms, which suggests that not all canine diabetes is type 1.

Insulin-deficiency diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

In contrast, insulin-resistance diabetes happens when the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, making it harder for glucose to enter the cells.

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Veterinary Professionals play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating diabetes in dogs. They are the ones who can identify the symptoms and run the necessary tests to confirm a diagnosis.

A veterinarian can diagnose diabetes in dogs by checking for symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and blurred vision. They may also perform blood tests to measure blood sugar levels and check for the presence of ketones.

Veterinary professionals can also help manage diabetes in dogs by prescribing medication, such as insulin, to regulate blood sugar levels. They may also provide guidance on diet and exercise to help dogs maintain a healthy weight and blood sugar level.

In some cases, a veterinarian may need to perform surgery to remove a tumor or other obstruction that is causing the diabetes. This is a serious procedure that requires careful consideration and planning.

Here are some potential causes of diabetes in dogs that veterinary professionals should be aware of:

By working closely with their veterinarian, dog owners can help manage their dog's diabetes and prevent complications. Regular check-ups and monitoring of blood sugar levels can help ensure that the condition is well-controlled.

Diagnosis is a crucial step in treating hypoglycemia and diabetes in dogs. A veterinarian will first perform a complete physical exam.

The veterinarian will then measure the current blood glucose value using a glucometer, which requires only a small drop of blood. This is beneficial for hypoglycemic puppies and kittens as a large sample is not required.

An ideal blood glucose value is 3.3-6.1 mmol/L, and any reading lower than this indicates hypoglycemia. Additional blood tests may be performed to evaluate organ function, electrolyte imbalances, and other blood-related conditions.

A urinalysis may be performed to eliminate urinary infections or disease and evaluate kidney function. If cancer or tumor growth is suspected, an ultrasound may be performed.

To diagnose diabetes, a blood test measuring the dog's blood glucose level is the most common diagnostic tool. However, a high glucose level does not always mean diabetes.

Additional tests may be run to rule out other diseases that can raise blood glucose levels, such as radiography to look for kidney or bladder stones and pancreatitis, thyroid testing, and testing for Cushing's disease.

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After diagnosis, a "serial blood glucose-concentration curve" may be obtained by measuring the dog's glucose level repeatedly over many hours to help choose an appropriate insulin, dose, and dosing schedule.

The vet may use either a fructosamine test or a glycated hemoglobin test to routinely test the dog's glucose levels and see how well the treatment protocol is working.

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If you suspect your dog has hypoglycemia, get them to a vet as soon as possible.

A vet will perform a physical examination and take note of your dog's symptoms. They will then determine the cause of the blood sugar drop and stabilize your dog's blood sugar levels, usually with a glucometer like the FreeStyle Libre.

In some cases, your vet may give your dog glucose or corn syrup orally to raise their blood sugar levels immediately.

For more severe symptoms, dogs may require an intravenous injection of concentrated dextrose, a simple syrup made from corn or wheat.

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Dogs that are overexerted may simply need to rest to recover from low blood sugar. Getting your dog proper nutrition can also help turn things around.

In some cases, like with excess insulin in diabetic dogs, an ongoing management plan must be created to prevent future episodes of hypoglycemia. This may involve medication, dietary changes, or other treatments.

If your dog has hypoglycemia due to a cancer, tumour, or portosystemic shunt, surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause. Inflammatory or endocrine disorders may be treated with medical management.

Managing diabetes in dogs requires a consistent approach to prevent complications. Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a plan to manage your dog's diabetes and keep track of their progress.

You'll need to keep a logbook to monitor your dog's progress, recording blood glucose test results, ketone test results, and changes in your dog's appetite, weight, appearance, water intake, urination frequency, or mood every day. A simple notebook or notes app on your phone works well.

Optimizing your insulin regimen is crucial to prevent hypoglycemia. Diabetic dogs usually require two insulin injections given at the same time every day, ideally 15 to 30 minutes after eating.

A consistent feeding schedule is also essential. Diabetic dogs do best with timed meals as opposed to free feeding, aiming to feed your dog every 10 to 12 hours or so.

Monitoring your dog's activity and weight is also important. Exercise can affect the way a dog's cells utilize insulin, and maintaining a proper exercise routine will make your dog healthier overall. Dogs with diabetes shouldn't gain weight, either, as this can affect their ongoing insulin needs.

Here are some key things to keep track of:

Managing a dog with low blood sugar or diabetes can be challenging, and early detection and prompt treatment are key in addressing hypoglycemia. Work closely with your veterinarian to design a consistent feeding and medication schedule, and monitor your dog's blood glucose levels regularly.

Treating hypoglycemia in dogs can be expensive, with costs ranging from $80 to $8000 for the entire treatment process.

If your dog requires an intravenous glucose infusion, this can add an additional $100 to $300 to the initial treatment cost.

The cost of treatment for underlying causes can be substantial, starting from $800 and depending on whether surgical intervention or medical therapy is necessary.

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As you consider the risks and costs associated with your dog's health, it's essential to understand the factors that can increase their likelihood of developing certain conditions.

Dogs with a higher age can be at risk of developing diabetes.

Certain breeds are at a higher risk of diabetes, so understanding your dog's breed history can help your veterinarian assess their risk.

Being overweight or obese can also increase a dog's risk of diabetes.

A dog's diet plays a significant role in their risk of developing diabetes.

The cost of treating hypoglycemia in dogs can be steep, with initial consultation and treatment ranging from $80 to $200.

An intravenous glucose infusion can add an extra $100 to $300 to the bill, depending on the severity of the episode.

Treatment for underlying causes can start from $800, and may require surgical intervention or medical therapy.

Ongoing treatment may be necessary, with total costs ranging from $1000 to $8000.

Securing pet health insurance can help protect you from unexpected vet costs, so it's a good idea to get insured as soon as possible.

If you notice your dog acting strangely, it's always better to err on the side of caution and call your veterinarian.

Dogs can experience a range of emotions and physical sensations, and their communication often relies on visible signs.

Low blood sugar, heart or lung conditions, discomfort, fear, and overheating can all manifest in different ways, making it essential to pay attention to your dog's behavior.

If you suspect your dog is dehydrated, you'll need to act quickly to prevent more serious issues from arising.

Dehydration can be a warning sign of underlying conditions, so it's crucial to address it promptly.

Your veterinarian can help you determine the cause of your dog's symptoms and provide guidance on the best course of action.