November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and while we often think of diabetes as a human condition, it’s also one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting our beloved cats and dogs. Understanding the signs, treatment, and management of pet diabetes can help you provide the best possible care for your furry companion.

Recognizing the Signs: Is Your Pet Diabetic?

Diabetes doesn’t develop overnight, and early detection can make a significant difference in your pet’s quality of life. Watch for these common warning signs:

• Increased thirst and urination – You may notice your pet drinking more water than usual and needing to go outside or use the litter box more frequently
• Increased appetite despite weight loss – Your pet may seem constantly hungry but continues to lose weight
• Lethargy or weakness – Reduced energy levels and less interest in play or activities
• Cloudy eyes (particularly in dogs) – Cataracts can develop rapidly in diabetic dogs
• Poor coat condition – Dull, dry, or unkempt fur
• Recurrent infections – Especially urinary tract infections

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately.

Type 1 vs. Type 2: The Cat and Dog Difference

While both cats and dogs can develop diabetes, the type and prognosis differ significantly between species.

Dogs and Type 1 Diabetes: Dogs almost exclusively develop Type 1 diabetes, also called insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. In this form, the pancreas loses its ability to produce insulin due to immune-mediated destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells. Because dogs cannot produce their own insulin, they require lifelong insulin injections. Unfortunately, remission is extremely rare in dogs, and they will need insulin therapy for the rest of their lives.

Cats and Type 2 Diabetes: Cats typically develop Type 2 diabetes, where the pancreas may still produce some insulin, but the body’s cells become resistant to it. The good news? With early diagnosis, proper treatment, weight management, and dietary changes, approximately 30-90% of diabetic cats can go into remission. This means they may eventually no longer require insulin injections, though careful monitoring remains essential.

Why Can’t the Pancreas Produce Insulin?

The pancreas contains specialized cells called beta cells that produce insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar. In diabetic pets, these beta cells are either destroyed (Type 1) or become dysfunctional (Type 2). Without sufficient insulin, glucose cannot enter the body’s cells to be used for energy.

What Happens When Glucose Levels Are Too High?

When your pet’s body cannot properly use glucose, several dangerous things occur:

• Cellular starvation – Despite high blood sugar levels, cells cannot access glucose for energy, leading to weight loss and muscle wasting
• Glucose spillover – Excess glucose spills into the urine, pulling water with it and causing increased urination and thirst
• Ketoacidosis – The body begins breaking down fat for energy, producing toxic ketones that can lead to life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis
• Organ damage – Prolonged high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, nerves, kidneys, and eyes

The Critical Importance of Blood Glucose Monitoring

Regular blood glucose monitoring is the cornerstone of successful diabetes management. Here’s why it matters:

• Ensures proper insulin dosing – Every pet responds differently to insulin, and monitoring helps determine the right dose
• Prevents dangerous hypoglycemia – Too much insulin can cause dangerously low blood sugar
• Tracks treatment effectiveness – Shows whether your pet’s diabetes is well-controlled or if adjustments are needed
• Detects remission in cats – Regular monitoring can identify when a cat no longer needs insulin

The Dangers of Insulin Overdose

While insulin is life-saving, too much can be deadly. Insulin overdose causes hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can result in:

• Weakness and disorientation
• Trembling or seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Death if untreated

This is why precision and consistency are absolutely critical when administering insulin.

The Insulin Schedule: Why Timing and Routine Matter

Successful diabetes management requires strict adherence to a schedule:

Consistent timing: Insulin should be given at the same times every day, typically every 12 hours. This maintains stable blood sugar levels and prevents dangerous spikes or drops.

Feeding routine: Your pet should eat at the same times each day, coordinated with insulin injections. Most veterinarians recommend giving insulin after your pet has eaten to ensure they’ve consumed their meal.

Never skip monitoring: If your pet is sick, vomiting, or refusing food, do not give insulin without first testing their blood glucose. Illness can dramatically affect blood sugar levels, and giving insulin to a pet that hasn’t eaten can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia.

Always consult your veterinarian if your pet is unwell, not eating, or if you’re unsure about giving their insulin dose.

How Felix and Fido Can Help

Managing diabetes can feel overwhelming, especially in the beginning. That’s where Felix and Fido’s Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) can make all the difference.

Our experienced RVTs come directly to your home to:

• Teach you proper insulin injection techniques – We’ll show you how to handle the syringe, draw up the correct dose, and administer injections confidently and safely
• Perform blood glucose curves – Our RVTs can conduct at-home glucose monitoring throughout the day, providing your veterinarian with valuable data without the stress of multiple clinic visits
• Demonstrate blood glucose testing – We’ll teach you how to use a glucometer so you can monitor your pet’s levels at home
• Provide ongoing education and support – From recognizing signs of hypoglycemia to establishing a consistent routine, we’re here to help you every step of the way
• Reduce stress for your pet – At-home care means less anxiety for pets who find vet visits stressful

With Felix and Fido, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to manage your pet’s diabetes effectively, ensuring they live a long, healthy, and happy life.

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Remember: Diabetes is a manageable condition with proper care, monitoring, and support. If you suspect your pet may be diabetic or need help managing their condition, contact your veterinarian and reach out to Felix and Fido to learn how our RVTs can support you and your pet at home.

Visit us at felixandfido.org to learn more about our at-home veterinary technician services.