diabetes

Insulin and Pet Diabetes Management

Insulin is a hormone produced naturally by the body and plays an important role in regulating the body's metabolism. If the body is unable to produce insulin or responds poorly to it, it can lead to high blood sugar (glucose) levels, leading to diabetes, which can negatively affect the body's energy and metabolism. For pets with diabetes, prompt treatment is crucial, otherwise as the disease progresses, it may lead to serious metabolic disorders, such as life-threatening ketoacidosis.

Diabetes in cats and dogs

Cats often develop the disease from lifestyle and obesity (type 2 diabetes), and the condition is often treatable. However, most dogs have type 1 diabetes and may require lifelong insulin treatment. As with all animals, a healthy diet and lifestyle modifications are an integral part of treatment.

Common symptoms of diabetes

• Frequent thirst and increased urination
• Breath that has a strong "fruity" or "sweet" flavor
• Urinating at home or in unusual places
• drastic changes in weight
• Wheezing, drowsiness, weakness (in severe cases)

If you suspect your pet has diabetes, consult your veterinarian immediately. Often, a simple blood test is all it takes to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection will greatly improve the effectiveness of treatment.

Insulin injection and administration

• Insulin injections: It is important to follow your veterinarian’s recommended dosage. Your veterinarian may adjust the dose as needed, but never make changes on your own without discussion. It is usually given once or twice daily and should be given with a meal.
• Blood Glucose Test: Checking blood sugar should be done before injection.
• Storage method: Insulin should be stored in a refrigerated cabinet. To remove, gently swirl the bottle to mix the contents (do not shake).
• Injection steps: Turn the bottle upside down, insert the needle into the seal, and slowly pull out the push rod into the syringe to draw the correct dose, making sure there are no air bubbles in the syringe. Lift the skin between the shoulder blades to form a "tent", gently insert the needle, and push the plunger to inject insulin. Remove and dispose of needles safely. Do not give another injection if you are unsure whether it was injected correctly as a double dose may cause severe hypoglycemia.

 

 

diabetes management strategies

A healthy weight and carbohydrate-controlled diet is particularly important for successful management of diabetes in pets. Spikes in blood sugar can overtax the body and lead to out-of-control diabetes, which a proper diet can help avoid. In many cases of type 2 diabetes, the condition can be controlled with a healthy weight and diet, under close supervision by a veterinarian.

Diabetes requires careful monitoring, usually through blood glucose monitoring. Watch out for situations where your blood sugar is too high (poorly controlled diabetes or not enough insulin) or too low (usually due to too much insulin or a poor diet). Poorly controlled diabetes can have serious consequences.

Monitoring Systems and Diabetes Control

Home monitoring systems make diabetes management more convenient. Signs of poorly controlled diabetes include:

• Excessive thirst, drinking, and urination
• Pet appears tired and weak
• Infection, skin disease, or cataracts

If you suspect your pet has received too much insulin, apply honey or sugar to the tongue and gums immediately and seek medical attention immediately. If you have a blood glucose monitor at home, blood sugar levels below 4 mmol/L or above 20 mmol/L are considered dangerous levels.

Insulin is crucial in diabetes management, and through accurate injections, healthy diet, and lifestyle changes, your pet's diabetes can be effectively controlled. Prompt medical treatment and monitoring of blood sugar levels can improve the effectiveness of treatment and ensure a healthy life for your pet.