Canine Hypoglycemia Symptoms & Treatment Methods Explai

Part 1: Causes of Low Blood Sugar in Dogs

Low blood sugar in dogs can be attributed to several factors. Excessive insulin secretion, impaired liver glucose storage and conversion, reduced adrenal cortex function, hypopituitarism, and imbalances in central nervous system regulation can all contribute to hypoglycemia. Additionally, puppies under three months of age often suffer from low blood sugar due to cold, hunger, or gastrointestinal dysfunction.

For female dogs, low blood sugar is often linked to factors such as an increased number of puppies, heightened nutritional demands, and excessive milk production postpartum.

Part 2: Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar in Dogs

Low blood sugar is quite common in puppies, and symptoms can include a drop in body temperature, weak heart sounds, deep and slow breathing. Some dogs may experience vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, affected dogs may exhibit seizures, coma, and dilated pupils. Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus are particularly prone to low blood sugar.

In adult dogs, symptoms are generally milder, with signs such as lack of energy, reluctance to move, and difficulty standing. Initially, they may still have an appetite, but as the condition worsens, seizures, coma, and potentially death can occur. In lactating females, low blood sugar often occurs within the first week postpartum, presenting with confusion, pale complexion, rapid breathing, unsteady gait, seizures, and an unpleasant odor. In the later stages, death may result from a drop in body temperature and coma. Among all cases of low blood sugar, those involving dogs undergoing cesarean sections are particularly dangerous, as the risk of sudden seizures, shock, and death during anesthesia is high.

Part 3: Treatment Methods for Low Blood Sugar in Dogs

For puppies experiencing a sudden drop in blood sugar, early intravenous glucose administration is crucial. Generally, it's important to supplement with glucose as needed.

In the case of female dogs, it's essential to enhance their nutritional intake with easily digestible foods and to supplement with glucose, calcium, and vitamins. Dogs with malnutrition are more susceptible to low blood sugar and should be provided with nutrients like proteins and fats. If hypoglycemia is caused by an islet cell tumor, prompt surgical removal is necessary.

Tip from the Pet Doctor: For more information on low blood sugar in dogs, check out our article "What Symptoms Indicate Low Blood Sugar in Dogs?"