Untreated diabetes in dogs looks like extreme thirst, frequent urination, weight loss despite a huge appetite, lethargy, and eventually cloudy eyes (cataracts), recurring infections, sweet-smelling breath, and potentially fatal diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with vomiting and collapse. The body breaks down fat and muscle for energy due to lack of insulin, leading to these severe symptoms and a breakdown of vital organs if untreated, making urgent veterinary care essential.

What does untreated diabetes do to a dog?

If a dog's diabetes remains untreated, or if the disease proves difficult to manage, the following severe symptoms will likely develop: Cataracts resulting in blindness. Urinary tract infections - UTIs. Kidney failure.

What happens if a diabetic dog isn't treated?

Diabetes itself does not typically cause pain; however, if left untreated, it can lead to seizures, coma, or even death. A diabetic dog that has lost significant weight is considered metabolically fragile.

Can diabetes cause diarrhea in dogs?

Vomiting and diarrhea: In severe cases of diabetes, dogs may experience vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and other complications. Cloudy eyes: Diabetes can cause cataracts to develop in dogs, which can cause cloudiness in the eyes.

How does a dog act when it has diabetes?

Excessive drinking and increased urination. Weight loss, with or without an increased appetite. Lethargy or weakness.

Daisy with low blood sugar

What does diabetes diarrhea look like?

Diabetic Diarrhea Diagnosis & Presentation

Severe diarrhea that is watery, voluminous, and brown in color is also common, as is steatorrhea. The bouts of diarrhea may be intermittent, with periods of normal bowel movements or constipation in between.

How long will a dog live with diabetes if untreated?

Dogs with diabetes tend to have an average life expectancy of only two years after diagnosis. Keep in mind that older dogs may experience worsening diabetes as they reach their senior years or experience complications due to diabetes from a related condition.

Is diabetes a reason to euthanize a dog?

It may be time to consider euthanasia when there are more bad days than good, recurrent DKA or severe hypoglycemia, persistent inappetence/weight loss, uncontrolled distress (constant thirst/urination, painful sores), or complications that can't be managed—especially despite close veterinary care and dose adjustments.

How to tell if your dog has ketoacidosis?

The signs of diabetic ketoacidosis include:

1. excessive thirst/drinking and increased urination.
2. lethargy, weakness.
3. vomiting.
4. increased respiratory rate.
5. decreased appetite.
6. weight loss (unplanned) with muscle wasting.
7. dehydration.
8. unkempt haircoat.

What organs does diabetes affect in dogs?

This disease is caused by a deficiency in the hormone insulin. Insulin is secreted by the pancreas, an organ in the digestive system, to control the amount of sugar (glucose) going into cells that need it for energy.

How quickly can a dog go blind with diabetes?

Most dogs with diabetes will quickly see changes in vision and formation of cataracts after becoming diabetic. Affected dogs often lose sight within five to six months of being diagnosed. Vision loss from diabetes can occur quickly, with complete vision loss occurring within 48 hours of the first symptom.

How expensive is treating a dog with diabetes?

Diabetes in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, & Insulin Cost. A diabetes diagnosis for your pup can be scary, and treating diabetes in dogs can be expensive. The cost of insulin for dogs can range from $30 – $150 monthly. That could be on top of the monthly costs of specialty foods and vet visits, too.

What breeds of dogs are prone to diabetes?

Genetics – The disease is more prevalent in certain breeds of dogs because of genetic predisposition. Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, Terrier breeds, Toy Poodles, Pomeranians, Miniature Schnauzers, and Keeshonds are more prone to diabetes than other breeds.

What food causes diabetes in dogs?

Dangerous Foods That Can Worsen Diabetes

• Sugary Treats and Baked Goods. Cake, cookies, candy, donuts, and pastries contain high amounts of sugar. ...
• High-Carbohydrate Foods. Carbohydrates convert to glucose quickly. ...
• 3. Fruits High in Sugar. ...
• Processed Snacks. ...
• Sugary Human Foods. ...
• Dairy Products (Except in tiny amounts) ...
• Cereals.

Do dogs with diabetes drink a lot of water?

The most common signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs are: Increased drinking. Increased urination. Increased appetite.

How does a dog feel with untreated diabetes?

Early signs of diabetes in dogs include increased thirst and urination as well as weight loss, despite a normal or even increased appetite. These symptoms will worsen relatively quickly if the dog doesn't receive insulin. Signs of advancing diabetes include: A dramatic increase in thirst and urination.

At what age do dogs get diabetes?

Age. Unlike humans, dogs are not very likely to be born with diabetes, although this can still occur now and then. Most dogs are at least five years old before they develop diabetes, because this disease often requires dogs to have led an unhealthy lifestyle for a long while before it develops.

What can you give a diabetic dog with diarrhea?

Consider a bland diet, such as boiled chicken and rice, avoiding foods that could spike blood sugar. Monitor your dog's blood glucose levels more frequently during this time. Consult your veterinarian before giving any over-the-counter medications for diarrhea.

What does uncontrolled diabetes look like?

Common Signs of Uncontrolled Diabetes

Increased thirst and frequent urination: Excess glucose in your bloodstream pulls water from tissues, leading to dehydration and more frequent bathroom trips. Extreme fatigue: When your body can't properly use glucose for energy, you may feel tired all the time.

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