ENDOCRINE

DIABETES MELLITUS

Species affected: Cats, Dogs
Background: Occurs primarily in animals with obesity, sedentary activity levels, processed food, high carbohydrate diets in carnivores (cats especially), and chronic, low-grade stress and pollution.
Symptoms: PU/PD, polyphagia, unexplained weight loss and later, diabetic ketoacidosis.
Diagnostics: Blood values are for glucose, insulin, serum fructosamines to monitor long-term glycemic control; sugar in the urine.
Special Notes: Cats frequently have equivalent of type 2 DM, while dogs frequently have equivalent of type 1 DM. Cats are known for spontaneously recovering from diabetes; they may fluctuate in and out of the disease state or become permanently diabetic. A low carbohydrate diet is recommended for these cats. Diabetic polyneuropathy does occur (more commonly in cats that in dogs) and is a sign that glycemic control is poor.
Principles for Supplementation: Diabetic polyneuropathy has been found to be responsive to controlling blood glucose levels and to acupuncture.

CANINE AND FELINE PRODUCTS—DIABETES MELLITUS