Signs & Symptoms of K9 Diabetes

Diabetes in dogs usually presents as Type 1 diabetes, in which insufficient insulin production creates increased glucose levels. Canine diabetes can be revealed by a few symptoms, depending on how long the dog has been ill. Common signs and symptoms include fatigue, increased frequency of urination, and increased hunger and thirst.

  1. Frequent Urination

    • One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of canine diabetes is frequent urination. When extra glucose stores build and can't be broken down, the dog's body tries to eliminate them by urinating. The increased urination then leads to greater thirst, causing the dog to drink more often to replenish fluids. If a previously housetrained dog suddenly begins urinating indoors, it can be a major red flag for diabetes. However, it may also signal common conditions such as bladder infection or incontinence in older dogs.

    Weight Loss and Increased Appetite

    • Weight loss is a common symptom of canine diabetes, even in dogs who seem to have an increased appetite. When the dog's cells don't get enough glucose, the dog's brain tells it that it needs more, causing him to eat more. Whether or not the dog seems hungrier than usual, a diabetic dog will still lose weight as his body breaks down stored protein and fat to produce much-needed energy. When canine diabetes remains undiagnosed, the dog loses more and more weight.

    Lethargy

    • If you notice that your dog has less energy, is less responsive, and sleeps more than before, she could have diabetes. Lethargy can also be a symptom of other health problems or simply a sign of aging. However, if your dog is usually active and suddenly becomes tired and lethargic, often napping instead of playing, she should be checked for diabetes.

    Ketones

    • The production of ketones, organic matter made by the liver in response to inadequate insulin supply, is a sign of advancing canine diabetes. A veterinarian can usually detect ketones with a simple blood or urine test. When ketones are detected early, treatment usually includes a new diet to restore insulin balance. When canine diabetes is left untreated, ketone overproduction can lead to a life-threatening condition known as ketoacidosis, which has symptoms of weakness, lethargy, and vomiting.