We’ve talked before
about pet health issues such as heat stroke, holiday hazards, and even cancer.
These are somewhat “downer” topics, I think we’d all agree as none of us want
to think of our pets struggling with such issues. We want to imagine them happy
and healthy all their lives with nary a trip to the vet to be seen. Sadly,
though, that isn’t realistic. Sooner or later, something will afflict your
beloved pet, whether it’s from outside circumstances or internal health issues.
If we educate ourselves on the potential issues, though, we greatly increase
the chances of giving our pets a chance to overcome the illness or enjoy a
higher quality of life!
This month is
dedicated to another major health complication that could spell serious trouble
for your dog or cat…but which does have very manageable approaches to dealing
with it.
Yes, pets can suffer
from diabetes just as much as humans. There are three main symptoms that could
indicate this condition:
·
Excessive Thirst – Is your dog or cat constantly drinking even if
they’re not being particularly active or hot? Perhaps to the point where
they’re getting bloated.
·
Frequent Urination – Are they having to go outside or using
the litter box far more often than usual? Maybe they’ve even begun peeing
around the house when that’s never been a problem before.
·
Constant Lethargy – While pets certainly slow down as they age, if
they never seem to move and never seem to have energy, that might be a warning
sign–especially if it’s happening in conjunction with the previous two.
Let’s say you suspect
your pet suffers from diabetes. What should you do? Unfortunately, there’s no
cure for diabetes, but it can be managed in an effective manner so you can
still help them enjoy an active and happy life.
Most importantly, a
trip to the vet is the most surefire way to determine whether diabetes is the
cause of their symptoms or not. You especially want to determine if it’s
diabetes because this illness in itself can give rise to numerous other
complications if not addressed. Early diagnosis gives your pet the best chance
of living out a full life in the best-possible health.
Once diabetes has
been diagnosed, daily insulin injections become part of the routine. Your vet
will be able to help you get comfortable with this. Plus, alongside everything
else, your pet’s diet will need to be carefully monitored. It’s all about
achieving a balance of glucose and insulin levels in their system.
For more in-depth
information, plus quizzes and checklists you can review both at home and with
your vet, visit PetDiabetesMonth.com!
Do you have a pet who struggles with diabetes, or you suspect they
might? What has your experience been like? How have you been able to care for
them during this?
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