Pet Diabetes


While many people are aware of the serious problem that diabetes can present in the human population, these issues can also spread to the world of pets. Pet diabetes is also becoming more common. This condition can have a serious impact on the quality of life as a pet just as it can in a human. Therefore, the helpful team at New Hope Animal Hospital is here to educate everyone in the Durham area on the dangers and treatment of diabetes.

image of a dog lying

How Does Pet Diabetes Develop?

Diabetes is a serious disease of the endocrine system. When someone consumes a meal that is high in carbohydrates, the pancreas releases insulin to combat the increase in glucose in the bloodstream. Sometimes, animals can overheat and overwhelm their pancreas with an increase in the levels of glucose. When this happens, the pancreas can get burned out. This means that it can no longer produce insulin to combat the high levels of sugar. As a result, high glucose levels start to overwhelm the rest of the body, leading to diabetes. This can lead to complications in the urinary system, the kidneys, the digestive tract, and even the eyes. This can have a serious impact on an animal’s quality of life. Fortunately, there are treatment options available.

How is Pet Diabetes Treated?

The main problem with pet diabetes is that the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to compensate for the food that animals ingest. Fortunately, there is synthetic insulin that is available for pets with this condition. A trained veterinarian in Durham will work with the family to teach them how to administer insulin to their pets. It will be important to make sure that this medicine is given at the proper time in relation to the meal that is consumed. It is possible to both overdose insulin, leading to serious complications. Those who have questions about pet diabetes should seek the expertise of an experienced veterinarian.

Rely on the Team at New Hope Animal Hospital

It can be stressful for families to hear that their pet has diabetes. They will need to make sure that their pet as healthy sugar levels and keep them in check using insulin. Those who have questions and concerns should call New Hope Animal Hospital today to schedule an appointment. We are here to serve all of the pets in the Durham area. We will work with families to make sure that they understand exactly what is going on with their life to one at all times. Call us today at (919) 490-2000 to learn more about our services. 

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