Two types of diabetes affect canines: diabetes mellitus, which is similar to human diabetes; and diabetes insipidus. Both of these diseases are results of endocrine disorders that alter canine hormone levels. Diabetes insipidus is a lack of vasopressin, which is a hormone controlling water absorption; while Diabetes mellitus is characterized as a deficiency in the sugar-metabolizing hormone, insulin.
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Polyphagia (Excessive Hunger)
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Canines suffering from diabetes break down stores of fat and protein at a much higher rate than normal, healthy canines. Because of this, you may notice your canine having an increased appetite, known as polyphagia, yet the dog seems to be losing weight. This is because the dog's cells are not receiving adequate amount of glucose because of this insulin deficiency, and even though a high amount of glucose may be in the blood, the brain recognizes it as being deficient. This increased hunger, coupled with weight loss, is usually a telltale sign of a canine diabetic reaction.
Polydipsia (Excessive Thirst)
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Polydipsia, or excessive thirst, is one of the most common symptoms your dog may have resulting from the onset of diabetes. Polydipsia means that your dog is abnormally thirsty, often searching for water anywhere, including puddles and toilet bowls. You might notice a change in your dog's water intake behavior, if it is consistently emptying its water bowl, yet still seems thirsty. If your dog consumes over five bowls of water in one day, consult your veterinarian.
Polyuria (Increased Urination)
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Polyuria is the production of excessive urination, as well as a frequent urge to urinate. You will notice your canine urinating much more than usual, with either a frequency to want to go outside more than usual, and sometimes even urinating in the home. This is because the lack of perceived insulin in the brain is causing non-related reactions in the body, triggering the ureic valves to work more than usual. It is important, while your canine is suffering from this, to keep it properly hydrated, so it doesn't suffer from dehydration.
Weight Loss
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Increased thirst and frequent urination are not the only signs of the onset of canine diabetes. Another symptom that may be prevalent is weight loss. Often, you will notice your canine losing weight regardless of increased hunger. This is because the brain cells are not recognizing the correct levels of glucose in the body, even though there may already be adequate amounts. Because of this reaction the brain believes more glucose is required, and continues to drive the hunger response.
Secondary Symptoms
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In addition to weight loss, some other signs to look for are vomiting, lethargy, weakness in legs, bacterial infections, and poor skin and coat. If you're noticing these secondary symptoms as well, consult you veterinarian immediately for further diagnoses.
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