November is Pet Diabetes Awareness Month. Affecting both pets and people, diabetes is a very dangerous disease. It’s of course important for you to bring your furry pal to the vet every year for panels and screenings. However, it’s also good for you to know what types of signs to look for. A local vet lists some of the more common signs of diabetes below.
Increased Water Consumption
Like humans, diabetic pets are often continually thirsty. You might notice Fido or Fluffy emptying their bowl quickly, or drinking out of the toilet bowl. (Diabetic cats may try to stick their noses into your water glass, but perfectly healthy kitties do this as well so that isn’t really much to go on in and of itself.)
Frequent Urination
As you might expect, frequent urination and increased water intake go hand-in-hand. Fido may have accidents in the house, while kitty may not make it to her litterbox.
Disappearing Food
Does your four-legged friend scarf down their food the moment it hits the bowl? And then act like they’re starving? Does Fluffy go into meltdown mode when she sees the bottom of her food bowl? Diabetes may be to blame.
Weight Loss
Weight loss often occurs with diabetic pets, even if they’re eating enough to account for a whole other pet. It’s a good idea to monitor their body weight by weighing them regularly.
Poor Coat
Your pet’s pretty fur may also start to show signs of diabetes. Fluffy or Fido may look dry, dull, or greasy. Fluffy may even stop grooming herself, which will make her fur look more unkempt.
Lethargy
We’re well aware that some of our patients are just couch potatoes by nature. But if your pet seems to be sleeping more than usual, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian.
Recurring Infections
Infections that won’t heal properly are another marker to look for. This includes UTIs, skin problems, and others.
Clouded Eyes
Unlike the other things we’ve mentioned, this one is unique in that it only applies to dogs. However, it is something to watch for with Fido.
Tips
If you notice one or more of these warning signs, or any other unusual behavior, call your vet right away. The sooner an issue is identified and treated, the better!
Do you know or suspect that your pet may have diabetes? Contact us, your local animal clinic in Rialto, CA, today! We’re dedicated to offering great care!
