Durban - Pet parents may need to consider decreasing the amount of unhealthy sugary and salty treats given to their beloved pets as these in large amounts result in obesity, a major risk factor for diabetes.
To prevent furry ones from developing pet diabetes, a high quality age-related diet and regular exercise are highly recommended.
Dr Jan Moll, a Bob Martin vet, said diabetes was prevalent in older pets. The main underlying reason in both cats and dogs was obesity. “Obesity in cats and dogs is a major issue in households that have highly attentive pet parents as the pet is usually spoiled with treats not formulated for pets,” he said.
“A measured amount of daily food, in which the treats are added as part of the daily diet, is important, especially for cats, as those with diabetes, even when on treatment, do not usually have a good long term prognosis.”
Moll explained that obesity in dogs can lead to pancreatitis which exposed them to diabetes. Although not breed specific, Poodles, Bichon Frise, Pugs, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Puli, Samoyeds, Keeshonds, Australian Terriers, Fox Terriers, Cairn Terriers, Tibetan Terriers and Beagles were more at risk. “Once there is a diagnosis, we have to have a comprehensive plan put together by the veterinarian which will include treatment as well as nutrition and exercise. “A good complete age related diet is normally sufficient.
What is important is that this is fed at the correct amount according to the animal and also at regular times. Routine is key to managing diabetic animals,” he said. Moll said meals had to be twice a day to coincide with treatment. “There needs to be food in the gut when the insulin treatment has its peak effect. “If the animal is obese, one would need to manage the diet as this needs to be corrected.
In animals that are underweight, this would also need to be corrected with more food,” he said. According to the SPCA, some of the signs of diabetes in pets include excessive thirst and urination which may cause accidents in the house.
Other symptoms are lethargy or inactivity, huge appetite with weight loss, as well as cloudy eyes in dogs. Celeste Houseman, general manager at SPCA Johannesburg, said diabetes could lead to other health problems. “For dogs, the most common complication is cataract formation. Persistently high blood glucose levels make the lens of the eye become opaque, causing blindness. “For cats, weakness of the hind legs is a common complication.
Persistently high blood glucose levels may damage nerves, causing weakness and muscle wasting,” she said. However, with available treatment, cats and dogs now have a fighting chance and could live as long as any other non diabetic pet. However, early detection is key in preventing serious complications.
SUNDAY TRIBUNE