Did you know that in the United States, an estimated one in 300 adult dogs and one in 230 cats have diabetes?
Fortunately, pets with diabetes can still live long, healthy lives with proper diagnosis, diet, exercise, and treatment.
Recognizing the signs of diabetes in your pet
Just like with humans, early detection is key to living with diabetes. Some warning signs to look out for include:
- Increase in water intake
- Increase in urine output
- Loss of weight
- Decrease in appetite
- Reoccurring infections
When you notice the signs of diabetes in your pet, it is time to schedule a trip to the veterinarian to figure out a game plan.
Managing a healthy diet
Glucose is the main energy source for the body’s cells, and when the cells cannot get the glucose they need, they do not have the energy to function properly. Because of this, one of the main components of diabetes management is a healthy diet.
Controlling your pet’s blood glucose or sugar levels, then, is the key.
With your veterinarian, choose a diet for your pet and give them the same quantity of food each day at the same times. Avoid adding in high-sugar treats or table scraps that could affect their sugar levels.
Try a high-fiber, low-fat diet, and control the number of calories your pet consumes each day.
Getting enough exercise
Exercise proves important to all pets for health and overall happiness, but when your pet has diabetes, you need to place a heavier emphasis on making sure he exercises each day.
Ensure your pet gets plenty of exercise on a regular basis to help them stay in shape. Go for the same length of exercise at the same pace each day to avoid sugar level spikes. If your pet is overweight, focus on helping him shed some pounds so he can better manage his diabetes.
Pets with diabetes require special care and attention. For whatever you and your pets need, Hill Country Pet Sitters Plus is there for you. When you need to go out of town, leave your pet in the hands of an experienced and caring pet sitter, your personal in-home alternative to expensive kennels.
Give us a call at 830-624-9284 to learn more!