What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is a disease of the pancreas, a small vital organ located near the stomach. The pancreas has two types of cells: one group of cells produces enzymes for digestion while the other group of cells produces the hormone insulin. Insulin regulates the level of glucose in the blood stream and controls the delivery of glucose to the tissues of the body. In simple terms, diabetes mellitus is a diseased state by which the body suffers from a shortage of insulin, or from an incorrect response from the cells to the insulin that is being produced called insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the pancreas, releasing into the cells in response to the digestive conversions of proteins into glucose in the bloodstream. Food that is ingested is broken down into glucose, a type of sugar in the blood and one of the body's main sources of energy. 

Clinical Signs and Symptoms

  • Increased thirst (early signs)
  • Increased urination (early signs)
  • Weight loss (early signs)
  • Increased appetite (early signs)
  • Anorexia - complete loss of appetite (later signs)
  • Lethargy and Depression (later signs)
  • Vomiting (later signs)

Types of Diabetes

Type I Diabetes Mellitus (Insulin dependent) - results from total or near complete destruction of beta-cells.

Type II Diabetes Mellitus (Non-insulin Dependent) - The amount of insulin produced is insufficient, there is a delayed response in secreting it, or the tissue in the body is resistant to it. 

What a Pet with Diabetes Means for You

Diabetes is not a death sentence for your pet -- it is a treatable condition and your pet can still live a normal, happy, healthy life. Age should not be a deciding factor in determining whether to treat your pet or whether to euthanize. With strong commitment and loving care from you and your veterinarian, they can live many years with diabetes. You must provide a very high level of care for your pet on a daily basis: every day you will have to give your pet medication, feed a proper diet, and keep a close eye on their behavior. You will have to make arrangements for someone to care for your pet if you are going out of town or cannot keep to your pets schedule that day. Your hard work and commitment will be reflected in your pet's good health.

Diabetes can be very frustrating and emotionally stressful. You may wonder how much you are upsetting or hurting your pet by giving pills or injections and feeding a new diet. These changes can be hard and your pet may rebel at first, not act themselves, or not be so loving, but in time, all the extra care and attention you are giving them will only grow a deeper bond between you and your pet. 

Educating yourself about diabetes is one of the best things you can do for your pet. The information can be intimidating and overwhelming at first but don't be afraid to ask questions - we are here to help. If you don't understand something, now matter what it is, please ask! Knowing the right answer could save your pet's life. With a basic understanding of diabetes you will be able to care for your pet better and communicate more effectively with your veterinarian. By making the decision to care for your pet with diabetes you are taking on a huge, but very rewarding challenge. 

Cost is always something owners think about when their pet is diagnosed with diabetes. It is not unusual to have an increase in expenses to reach the initial diagnosis between bloodwork and hospitalization. If you were not aware of your pet's condition and it is critical, the cost may be significantly more.  During the first few months while getting your pet's blood glucose regulated, expenses may be high. These expenses may consist of medical progress exams, glucose curves, insulin and supplies, prescription food, etc. These appointments are important to make sure your pet's diabetes is managed appropriately and that your pet is on the right track to feeling well.  After your pet's diabetes is regulated, you will have a monthly expense for insulin, syringes, and prescription diet. 


Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours

Monday

7:30 am - 7:30 pm

Tuesday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Wednesday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Thursday

7:30 am - 7:30 pm

Friday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Saturday

7:30 am - 12:00 pm

Sunday

Closed

Monday
7:30 am - 7:30 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Wednesday
7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Thursday
7:30 am - 7:30 pm
Friday
7:30 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday
7:30 am - 12:00 pm
Sunday
Closed