Diabetes on the Rise in Petsby Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger 16 Dec 2007 01:26 PM Obesity is on the rise in pets -- just like in people. And just like in people, diabetes is rising in dogs and cats. Diabetes affects as many as one out of every fifty pets, and overweight pets are at higher risk. What is diabetes? When the body doesn't produce enough insulin, the body can't process or properly use glucose (blood sugar). The glucose isn't going into the body's tissues, and instead builds up in blood and urine. If your pet is overweight, watch for these signs that may indicate diabetes:
Obesity is clearly linked to diabetes in pets. However, obesity operates differently in dogs and cats. Overweight cats develop insulin resistance. That means their bodies don't use insulin properly. Instead, the pancreas more insulin and a hormone called amylin. Amylin can gather and destroy insulin-producing cells. Overweight dogs have an increased risk of pancreatitis -- an inflammation of the pancreas. When the pancreas is inflamed, the body doesn't make enough insulin. Diet change has a dramatic effect on diabetes in cats. Veterinarians suggest a high protein/low carb diet -- called the "Catkins" diet. Just a diet change helps seventy-five percent of cats beat diabetes back to the point where they no longer need insulin injections. Diet change isn't as dramatic in dogs, but it can help diabetic dogs need less insulin. Veterinarians also have different types of insulin -- one for cats and one for dogs -- to help owners manage diabetes in pets more easily. And owners can monitor their pets' glucose levels using a blood glucose meter -- similar to how diabetic humans check their blood sugar levels throughout the day. Diabetes in pets is often preventable. Keep your pets at a normal weight to help keep diabetes risk lower. Your veterinarian can advise you if your pet needs some help shedding pounds. Learn more about Aimee Amodio  Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover... Relevantpets tags User Comments BARC (5) 16 Jan 2008 08:13 AMI agree, obesity in pets is in fact on the rise and can lead to diabetes, as well as many other health problems. We know that it is sometimes hard to tell if your pet is actually overweight, especially with certain dog breeds. If you or someone you know has a dog at risk, you can take this quick quiz called Body Assessment Rating for Canines at http://www.stopcainineobesity.com/barc.htm. This Quiz will help you to determine if your dog is a prime candidate to participate in the National Canine Weight Check happening during the Month of February at participating vet clinics. To learn more also check out www.stopcanineobesity.com Community Tags catkins diet, diabetes, diabetes in pets, diabetes in dogs, diabetes in cats Discuss this article
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