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Diabetes FAQs

The rates of diabetes among dogs and cats has risen in recent years, and it is currently estimated that 1 in every 300 dogs and 1 in every 230 cats will be diagnosed with this metabolic disease during the course of their life. So, if your pet was recently diagnosed with diabetes, the important thing to note is that you're not alone and that our Laguna Hills veterinary team is here to help keep your pet healthy and ensure they live the longest life possible. 

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Let's get started by answering some of the most frequently asked questions we get about diabetes at our animal clinic and hospital:

What exactly is diabetes?

Diabetes is a type of metabolic disease in which the body is unable to control blood glucose levels due to either its inability to produce insulin (known as Type I) or a sudden resistance to insulin (known as Type II). Without insulin, the cells within a body cannot get the glucose they need to properly function.

What causes diabetes? 

One of the leading causes of diabetes and a contributing factor to the high rate increase of diabetes among pets is obesity and the consumption of a high-fat diet. So keeping your pet on a healthy diet by feeding them proper veterinarian approved pet food and ensuring they get appropriate exercise is the best way you can prevent diabetes in your pet. 

However, obesity and diet aren't the only causes. Some breeds of both dogs and cats are naturally predisposed to developing the disease and a number of medical conditions (ie pancreatitis) can result in diabetes developing. 

How do I know if my pet has diabetes?

The only sure way to know if your pet has this disease is to have them tested for it by your Laguna Hills veterinarian. You should consider doing so if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Excessive thirst
  • Increased appetite paired with weight loss
  • Frequent urination
  • Cloudy eyes
  • General fatigue

How can I fix diabetes?

There is no cure for diabetes, but there are treatments that will manage the disease and allow your pet to live a long and happy life. Diabetes treatment is incredibly as important because if left untreated, the disease can lead to the development of more serious medical conditions like cataracts and ketoacidosis.

Common treatments for pet diabetes include:

  • Insulin therapy which involves the twice-daily injections of insulin to keep glucose levels normal. 
  • Prescription diet paired with regular exercise to manage glucose levels.
  • Blood glucose monitoring to ensure glucose levels are correct. 

Have Your Pet Tested Today

For more information about pet diabetes, contact our team today and schedule your pet's appointment.

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Tuesday:

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8:00 am-3:00 pm

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Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Wow! Thanks to all the staff at Anderson Vet Clinic. I feel like you all truly love what you do! My kitty, Lola and I always have such a pleasant experience when we come in. Fortunately, it’s usually just for a check-up, but I would not leave Lola in anyone else’s hands but yours. Thank you for your caring commitment!"
    Maya Smith / Los Angeles, CA
  • "I have benefited tremendously from the care my pet received from Dr. Anderson."
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