Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a condition that usually develops because of a lack of the hormone insulin.  Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas and is necessary for the regulation of blood sugar levels.  A shortage of insulin is usually the result of damage to the pancreas.

A pet with diabetes can show a wide range of signs.  The longer the disease is untreated, the more complications result, including cataracts in the eyes.  There is no cure, but pets with diabetes can live longer with proper nutrition, exercise and insulin injections.

Types of Diabetes Mellitus

• Type I:  Decreased insulin production by the pancreatic beta cells.  Type I diabetes is always insulin dependent (IDDM).

• Type II:   Decreased responsiveness of the body's cells to insulin, or, improperly functioning beta cells.  Type II diabetes may be either insulin dependent (IDDM) or non-insulin dependent (NIDDM).

• Transient:  A condition where the insulin requirement comes and goes.  Approximately 20 percent of diabetic cats may experience periods where they no longer require insulin injections.  These periods may range from weeks to months.  The diabetes may recur and insulin must be given again.

IDDM and NIDDM are seen in both dogs and cats.  Most dogs have IDDM.

Causes of Diabetes Mellitus

Factors that can cause or increase the risk of diabetes include:

• Genetic
• Infectious viral diseases
• Immune-mediated destruction of the pancreatic beta cells
• Pancreatitis
• Drugs including glucocorticoids (steroids) and progestagens (reproductive hormones)
• Breed - Some dogs, such as Samoyeds, Miniature Schnauzers, Miniature Poodles and Pugs are predisposed to diabetes.  In cats, no breeds are more at risk than others.
• Gender - In dogs, diabetes is at least twice as common in females.  In cats, neutered males are at greater risk.
• Body Condition - Overweight pets have a greater tendency to develop diabetes.
• Age - Pets can develop diabetes at any age, although the peak onset is around the age of eight.
• Hormonal Changes - Short-term hormonal changes can cause diabetes.

Signs of Diabetes Mellitus

A cat or dog with diabetes mellitus could exhibit some or all of the following symptoms:

• Weakness
• Increased thirst
• Increased and frequent urination
• Weight loss
• Change in appetite; initially increases and later declines
• Depression
• Vomiting
• Cataracts (in dogs), causing blindness

Home Care

• If additional signs if illness appear, contact your veterinarian.
• Feed only the food recommended by your veterinarian.
• Follow a daily routine, such as regular meal times, set amounts of food, and consistent levels of daily exercise.
• If giving insulin, make sure you set regular times for injections.
• Provide free access to fresh, clean water.
• Diabetes requires regular, careful monitoring, so make sure you keep appointments with your veterinarian.

Feeding Recommendations

In addition to exercise and, possibly, insulin injections, your veterinarian may recommend a food with moderate to high levels of fiber and a consistent nutrient profile.  Consistency is important to help keep your pet's metabolism level for better health.  The nutritional profile of many commercial foods varies from batch to batch, which can complicate the disease.