Systemic Disease
Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disease of dogs and cats. It is caused by a relative or absolute deficiency of insulin. All dogs and cats are susceptible to diabetes, but it is usually seen in middle aged to older pets.
Signs and Symptoms:
- An increase in drinking (polydipsia)
- An increase in urination (polyuria)
- An increase in eating (polyphagia)
- Weight loss (cachexia)
- Increased susceptibility to infection
Peripheral Neuropathy is occasionally seen in feline diabetes (walking on 'dropped hocks')
Cataracts are far more common in canine diabetes than feline diabetes
A preliminary diagnosis of diabetes mellitus based on clinical signs must be confirmed by laboratory tests on blood and urine. The Colborne Veterinary Clinic can diagnose and help manage your pet's diabetes.
source: http://www.caninsulin.com
