What is diabetic ketoacidosis? This dangerous complication of canine diabetes is sometimes the first symptom of untreated diabetes in dogs. Dog owners must know the symptoms of this condition to prevent this life-threatening complication of diabetes in canines.
A Deadly Condition for a Diabetic Canine
During the process of digestion, food is broken down into glucose, which is the fuel used by the body. Normally blood glucose levels are regulated by insulin, which is secreted by the pancreas. But if the body can't use the insulin, then glucose levels in the blood become too high.
The body compensates by breaking down stored fat for energy. This produces fatty acids, which are sent to the liver. The liver then uses these fatty acids to produce ketones, which the body can also use for fuel.
When glucose levels in the blood are too high, this causes the liver to produce too many ketones, leading to diabetic ketoacidosis, or DKA. If left untreated, this condition is fatal.
What are the Symptoms of DKA?
Most of the symptoms of DKA are the same as those of canine diabetes:
- Excessive thirst and drinking large amounts of water
- Urinating very frequently
- Sudden vision loss
- Weakness and lethargy
- Weight loss, even though the pet has a ravenous appetite
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
The hallmark symptom of ketoacidosis is that the dog's breath smells like nail polish remover. This is due to the build-up of ketones in the pet's system.
This is a life-threatening emergency. If your pet develops these symptoms, take him to the vet as soon as you possibly can.
Treatments for DKA
DKA can vary in severity, and this will determine how it's treated. IV therapy, along with insulin, may be all that's required for mild cases.
But most cases are well advanced by the time the pet is brought to the vet, and many complications can develop. Kidney failure, bacterial infections, pancreatitis, anemia, and brain swelling are problems that require aggressive treatment if the pet is to survive.
With proper treatment, 60 to 70 percent of affected dogs will go home with their owners. Once the canine is able to eat and drink on his own again, the vet will determine what kind of insulin is needed, and the proper dosage. The pet owner will have to learn how to check his companion's blood sugar, and how to give insulin shots.
Can Diabetic Ketoacidosis Be Prevented?
The best way to prevent this condition is to know the symptoms of canine diabetes. Pet owners must carefully monitor blood sugar levels in dogs with diabetes, and give insulin shots as needed.
If your pet is overweight, it's important to get his weight down to where it should be. Consult with your vet about putting your pet on a diet, as it's essential that the dog eats on a regular basis to prevent hypoglycemia. Weight control in dogs with diabetes can be challenging, but it can be done.
Regular exercise is important, but again, use caution with a diabetic dog. Vigorous exercise sessions can cause sudden dips in blood glucose levels, which can be dangerous. A ten-minute walk at the same time every day is much better for your pet than an hour of high-impact exercise once a week.
All dog owners must know the symptoms of diabetes in dogs to prevent severe complications or death from ketoacidosis. Any pet with these symptoms should be taken to the vet right away. Being alert to this problem can save a beloved dog's life.
References
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in Dogs
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