Dogs get diabetes too! Some pet owners are not aware that diabetes can also affect their beloved dog. Before you start feeding your pet any diabetic dog food, here are some of the similarities and difference of diabetes in dogs and in humans that you should know about.
Some Similarities
Diabetes is a disease or condition where sugar or glucose is not properly processed. It is brought about by a lesion in the pancreas. For both dogs and humans the pancreas releases a hormone called “insulin” which carries the glucose ingested to the cells to be utilized. For diabetics the pancreas does not make enough insulin to carry the glucose in the cells. The glucose just stays in the blood and the cell doesn’t get the energy they need.
Differences in Humans and Dogs
Canine diabetes is similar to Type I diabetes in humans. With this type of diabetes they will be insulin dependent their entire life. This type of diabetes cannot be cured. But will have to be managed through proper diet and exercise plus insulin shots.
While the Type II diabetes in humans does not require insulin shots. It can be controlled through a healthy diet and oral medications. Unfortunately diabetes in dogs never resembles Type II diabetes.
Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs and Humans
TYPE I (Dogs & Humans)
· Increased appetite
· Unusual thirst
· Frequent urination
· Extreme fatigue and irritability
· Weight loss
TYPE II (Humans)
· Any of the symptoms in Type I
· Blurred vision
· Numbness of the hands and feet
· Slow healing wounds
· Recurring skin, gum or bladder infections
