What it is
Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that works like a key, letting sugar from food move out of the blood and into the cells, where it is burned for energy. Without enough working insulin, the sugar stays in the blood, spills into the urine and pulls water with it, which is why the dog drinks and urinates so much. Starved of fuel, the body starts breaking down fat and muscle instead.
It tends to appear in middle-aged and older dogs, and excess weight and some other hormonal conditions can make it more likely.
Once a dog has diabetes, it becomes part of the family routine. Regular mealtimes, steady daily exercise and keeping an eye on thirst, appetite, weight and energy help you notice early when something changes.
Signs you may notice
- Drinks much more than usual
- Urinates more, accidents indoors
- Loses weight despite eating well
- Cloudy eyes
- Tired and sluggish
The dog starts drinking and urinating much more, may begin having accidents indoors, and loses weight even though its appetite stays good or even grows. In some dogs the eyes turn cloudy and the dog becomes more sluggish.
When to see a vet
Book a visit soon if your dog is drinking and urinating more or losing weight despite a good appetite. A dog with diabetes that becomes weak or wobbly, starts vomiting, collapses or has a seizure needs a vet immediately.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.