prissilawikaq: The signs and symptoms of diabetes in pets

November is National Pet Diabetes Month.

Diabetes is a relatively common disease in which the body doesn?t use glucose properly. If left untreated, diabetes is life-threatening. It is manageable and if detected early enough, pets with diabetes can live a normal life when treated and medicated properly.

In dogs, diabetes must be managed with insulin.

In cats, diabetes is similar to the human version of diabetes and can often be managed with a change of diet recommended and supervised by a veterinarian.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes that owners should be aware of include the following:

?Weight loss

?Cataracts may be present if diabetes has been existent for a longer period of time

?Increase in water consumption

?Increase in urination

?Increase in appetite

?If you notice any of these symptoms, we highly recommend seeing your family veterinarian as soon as possible,? said Dr. Neil Shaw, chief medical officer of BluePearl Veterinary Partners.