Diabetes:

Diabetes is on the rise in America and our pets are no exception. According to the most recent, comprehensive study released by Banfield Pet Hospital, the incidence of diabetes is on the rise in dogs and cats throughout the country. Between 2006 and 2015, researchers identified a startling 80% increase in diabetes in dogs and an 18% increase in cats. According to BioSpace.com, "North America is projected to account for a major share of the global pet diabetes care market during the forecast period."

Is your pet at risk for Diabetes?

If you don’t know, you’re not alone. Many people do not realize that their cat or dog can develop diabetes. In a 2020 updated report released by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), diabetes affects more than 34.2 million people in the United States - up from 25.7 million people in 2018. Sadly, as our four-legged friends mirror what is happening to us, some pets, especially our cats, are at an increasingly high risk for this disease. With diabetes affecting more pets than ever, it is important to know the signs and symptoms.

Symptoms:

If your pet is exhibiting any of these signs, talk to your veterinarian.

  • excessive thirst
  • inappropriate or excessive urination
  • weight loss
  • increased hunger
  • loss of energy

While there’s no cure for diabetes, proper care can help your pet live a happy, healthy, active life. The more you know about diabetes, the better you’ll be able to work with your veterinarian to successfully manage your pet’s health.

It is estimated that 1 in 300 dogs and 1 in 230 cats in the U.S. have diabetes. Only your veterinarian can diagnose diabetes and provide appropriate preventive and management programs. Diabetes can be managed with a good, consistent diet, proper exercise, weight loss, and injectable insulin. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, diabetic dogs will almost always need to be on insulin for the remainder of their lives whereas some cats can have their diabetes controlled and even reversed by good glucose control and proper diet.

Since November is Pet Diabetes Month, take this time to learn about diabetes, its symptoms, and treatment options.  For more information, quizzes, a diabetes checklist, and much more click here.

If you have nutritional concerns, consult one of our highly trained staff at Braxton's.