Problems Associated with Canine Diabetes

Canine diabetes that has already worsened can cause complications to your dog’s body. This is especially true if the dog is old or if he has been suffering from the condition for a long period of time. It could also take place if we do not provide proper care and treatment for our pet.

Below are the most common problems associated with diabetes in dogs.

1. Blindness

Due to excess glucose in the body, it goes into the lens of the eyes. The glucose found in the lens turns into sorbitol which brings about more water in the eyes. When this happens, the normal eye functions become disrupted, and the lens would then turn cloudy. Consequently, the dog’s eyesight will be badly affected, causing partial or complete blindness. This can be treated through surgery but only if the dog’s condition is stable enough to withstand the procedure.

2. Ketoacidosis

When your dog’s breath starts to smell like nail polish, it is an indication that he may have ketoacidosis. What is it and why do diabetic dogs develop this condition?

Ketoacidosis is a very dangerous disease that usually occurs when a diabetic dog is not given proper treatment. As you are probably aware, when a dog has diabetes, insulin production is affected. When there is no insulin, the body’s glucose level goes up. As a natural response, the body then metabolizes stored fat and turns it into fatty acids which would then be processed in the liver to produce ketones.

On normal levels, ketones are effective in boosting the body’s energy, but when produced in high amounts, which is the case if insulin is unavailable, it causes ketoacidosis which could be fatal if not treated immediately.

3. Recurring Infections

Dogs with diabetes have weakened immune systems and are thus prone to infections. Additionally, a high level of glucose in the body also attracts bacteria, which thrives well in such conditions. Urinary tract infection is also common because when there is excess glucose in the urinary tract, it will house more bacteria, both good and bad ones. It is therefore necessary for you to ensure that your dog lives in a clean environment to prevent the onset of infections which could further cause difficulties his condition.

As you may have realized, these complications can be prevented if you follow treatments and recommendations made by your dog’s vet. A diabetic dog’s condition may require extra attention and care nonetheless, long-term problems are avoidable.