A non-routine appointment to diagnose dog diabetes can run from $225-500, including necessary blood tests. The veterinarian will diagnose whether your pup has type 1 diabetes (which is more common in canines) or type 2, the severity of the condition, and then prescribe the proper level of insulin therapy.

Is having a diabetic dog expensive?

Diabetes is one of the most common dog diseases. Treating it can be costly, however, as a vial of insulin can range from $40 – $150 monthly. Add to that the monthly cost of specialty foods and vet visits, and the costs of treating diabetes in dogs begin to stack up.

What are the first signs of diabetes in a dog?

How do vets test for diabetes in dogs?

The vet will test your dog's urine for the presence of glucose. If it appears at a high level in their urine, they will then test your dog's blood. A diagnosis of diabetes will only become definite when glucose is found at a high level both in the urine and in the blood. Diabetes is not a curable disease.

How long will a dog live with diabetes?

It's true that a dog can pass away within a month or two of beginning to show signs of diabetes, but many will live for a year or two after diagnosis with appropriate treatment. Some do very well for even longer, particularly if they have a dedicated pet parent who can continue to provide the care they need.

How to test your dog's blood glucose at home

How does a dog act when blood sugar is high?

Symptoms of high blood sugar in dogs include:

Increased thirst. Increased urination. Depression, expressed in loss of appetite, changes in sleeping habits, loss of interest in activity, and/or seclusion. Severe depression, as seen in dogs with very high blood sugar levels.

What can be mistaken for diabetes in dogs?

Dogs with Cushing's disease (i.e. an over production of steroid hormones) can present with symptoms that are very similar to diabetes insipidus. This includes an increase in thirst and an increase in urination. Some dogs with these symptoms just have Cushing's disease.

Is insulin for dogs expensive?

On average, the cost of insulin for dogs can range from $40 to $150 per month, although it can be more or less than that, depending on the factors mentioned above. For smaller dogs, it's usually between $40 - $80, while for larger dogs, it can be $80- $150.

What can trigger diabetes in dogs?

How does a dog feel with untreated diabetes?

Vomiting is typically not something that occurs in uncomplicated diabetes cases, says Dr. Behrend. “If diabetes goes untreated, the dog can go into diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), where you see vomiting, lethargy and a poor appetite.

Can diabetes in dogs be treated without insulin?

Dogs with diabetes mellitus typically require two daily insulin injections as well as a dietary change. Although a dog can go a day or so without insulin and not have a crisis, this should not be a regular occurrence; treatment should be looked upon as part of the dog's daily routine.

When should a dog be tested for diabetes?

Your veterinarian should administer a glucose curve test at least every few months. It is also recommended: A few weeks after your pet starts taking insulin for the first time. 1-2 weeks after any change in insulin dose.

Is a dog with diabetes suffering?

Often, these dogs are losing weight but eating and may be constantly hungry. Additionally, some diabetic dogs will show other signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or rapid vision loss from cataracts in dogs. And dogs with advanced diabetes may also experience some mental confusion.

Can I use Walmart insulin for my dog?

The second controls blood glucose levels between meals. Walmart sells an intermediate-acting NPH human-recombinant insulin that's not approved for use in animals (Novolin N; manufactured by Novo Nordisk and sold under the Walmart brand). It comes in a concentration of 100 IU/ml and is sold in a 10-ml vial.

Does pet insurance cover diabetes?

Yes, pet insurance typically covers diabetes — As long as it isn't a pre-existing condition, diabetes is a covered disease. Treatments won't look the same for every pet — Depending on the species and the type and severity of their diabetes, treatment might vary.

Do dogs feel better after insulin?

For most diabetic dogs, insulin therapy will improve clinical signs soon after initiation. However, it may take several weeks for the animal to fully adjust to insulin therapy.

Is diabetes painful for dogs?

Diabetes is more than just “high blood sugar.” Left untreated, your dog may suffer from blindness, organ failure, body ulcers, and abdominal pain. This is why early detection is so vital.

How much do vets charge for insulin?

Insulin. Vets can charge in excess of £50.00 for a 10ml vial of Caninsulin insulin and £30.00 for a fortnight's worth of syringes. You can ask your vet for a repeat prescription to cover up to 6 months worth of insulin. You may be charged a small fee for the prescription.

Can dogs have temporary diabetes?

It is possible for acute pancreatitis to cause a temporary, or transient diabetes, most likely due to damage to the endocrine portion's beta cells.

Can a diabetic dog skip a meal?

Prolonged inappetence is especially problematic for diabetic dogs since they cannot receive their insulin regularly if they don't eat. And some of the conditions diabetic dogs are predisposed to, like diabetic ketoacidosis, can even be fatal without prompt and aggressive veterinary care.

How can I lower my dog's blood sugar quickly?

Walk the Dog

Regular exercise will also help your pooch lose weight and lower blood sugar levels. It's best to have your dog exercise for the same length of time and at the same intensity every day.

Is 400 high for dog blood sugar?

Normal blood glucose levels in healthy dogs are 80-120 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dl). Most dogs can handle levels going as high as 250 with minimal side effects. Post mealtimes, some dogs may normally go up to 400 but that is a temporary effect.

How do dogs act when their sugar is low?

Clinical signs may include altered mentation and behavior, seizures, syncope, muscle twitching/fasciculations, somnolence, exercise intolerance, muscle tremors, collapse, ataxia, weakness, and impaired vision.

Do diabetic dogs sleep a lot?

A diabetic animal will often be more tired than usual and show an unwillingness to participate in some of its regular activities. Diabetes can cause weakness in certain muscles in an animal, and since they may suffer from malnutrition, they will spend more time sleeping and less time being active.

---