Early Symptoms of Dog Diabetes: What to Watch Out For
1. Increased Water Intake
Diabetic dogs often require a greater amount of water than usual. It's important to monitor whether their thirst is gradually increasing. Factors like postexercise or hot weather are generally normal and don't usually warrant concern.
2. More Frequent Urination
As dogs drink more water, their urine output naturally increases, and so does the frequency of urination. If you notice your dog drinking more and urinating more often, it's a sign to pay closer attention.
3. Enhanced Appetite
Should your dog suddenly exhibit a ravenous appetite, consuming more food than usual without any change or loss in weight (a condition known as polyphagia), it could be a sign of diabetes.
4. Gradual Weight Loss
Despite their increased hunger, diabetic dogs may actually lose weight due to the elevated metabolism caused by the disease, rather than gaining it.
5. Lethargy and Weakness
Diabetes can lead to muscle atrophy, particularly in the back and legs, causing dogs to appear tired, listless, or excessively sleepy. Their coat may also become drier and thinner, with sparse, dry, and lackluster hair, especially on the back.
6. Blurred Vision
Just as in humans, diabetes in dogs can lead to eye complications, so if you notice your dog's eyesight becoming increasingly blurry, it's a cause for concern.
7. Mental Distress
In the later stages of canine diabetes, symptoms may include diabetic ketoacidosis, where the body breaks down fat and protein, leading to metabolic acidosis. This imbalance can lower the body's insulin response and the presence of high levels of ketones can be toxic, leading to mood disturbances in pets.
It's generally necessary to combine various symptoms to diagnose a disease. If your dog shows any signs of distress, it's crucial to take them to a veterinarian for a thorough examination.
Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on canine diabetes, check out our article "Improving Methods for Dogs with Diabetes" for valuable insights.
