Sometimes, it’s the little things that signal that there is something wrong with your pet’s health. A water bowl that empties faster. A dog that goes to the door for more frequent potty breaks. A noticeable shift in a cat’s energy. Any of these can be a pet’s way of signaling something deeper, like diabetes. For National Pet Diabetes Month in November, Jupiter Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care would like to emphasize the importance of not brushing off early warning signs that could indicate your pet has diabetes.
Pet Diabetes in Simple Terms
Diabetes in pets occurs when their body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it efficiently. Insulin interacts with sugar (glucose) in the bloodstream so that the glucose can be used for energy. Without it, blood sugar levels rise, and that imbalance can affect everything from appetite and weight to organ health and energy levels.
Both dogs and cats can develop diabetes, although the disease tends to behave a little differently in each species. Regardless, the sooner it’s diagnosed, the sooner a veterinarian can stabilize your pet’s condition.
Signs of Diabetes in Pets
Pets can’t tell us directly when they’re unwell, but they often show us. Here are some of the signs that might indicate diabetes in cats and dogs:
- Drinking more water: Is your pet suddenly glued to the water bowl or emptying it more quickly than usual?
- Increased urination: Frequent accidents in the house or trips to the litter box are worth noting.
- Weight loss despite eating well: This can be one of the clearest signs that something isn’t right.
- Noticeable fatigue or low energy: A once-playful pet that now seems sluggish may be dealing with internal imbalances.
- Cloudy eyes in dogs: This can signal cataracts, a complication of canine diabetes.
- Hind leg issues in cats: In rare cases, cats may develop rear-leg nerve damage that causes them to move/stand lower to the ground.
If any of these symptoms seem familiar, especially when they appear in combination, bring your pet to a veterinarian for an evaluation.
Left untreated, diabetes can lead to more serious complications such as urinary tract infections, vision loss, or a dangerous condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Pet diabetes treatment is often straightforward and highly effective when started soon after the condition develops.
What to Expect If Your Pet Is Diagnosed with Diabetes
Diabetes management for cats and dogs will be a daily routine. Diabetic pets adapt well to a consistent care plan that may include:
- Daily insulin injections
- A structured feeding schedule
- A specialized diet
- Periodic diagnostic testing
- Routine checkups to monitor progress
An experienced veterinary team will provide full support and guidance at every step, from showing you how to give your pet insulin to putting together dietary recommendations.
Visit Us to Get Diabetes Testing for Pets in Jupiter, FL
If a pet displays any symptoms of diabetes, they should get tested right away. A quick diagnosis leads to better health outcomes in the long run. Jupiter Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care has pet diabetes testing in Jupiter for cats and dogs from Palm Beach Gardens, Juno Beach, Jupiter, and neighboring Florida areas. Schedule a diabetes consultation for your pet at Jupiter Veterinary Hospital & Urgent Care.
