One of our beloved diabetic patients, Nutmeg
November spotlights diabetes in pets—and early detection makes a big difference. If your dog or cat is drinking and urinating more, losing weight despite a good appetite, or seems low-energy, it’s time to schedule a quick diabetes screen.
Common Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Drinking and urinating more (larger litter clumps or empty water bowls)
- Good or increased appetite with weight loss
- Accidents in a house-trained pet or outside-the-box urination for cats
- Low energy, weakness, or sleeping more
- Recurrent skin, ear, or urinary infections
- Dogs: cloudy eyes (possible cataracts)
What a Diabetes Screen Includes
- Physical exam and history
- Urinalysis (checks for glucose/ketones and infection)
- Blood glucose ± fructosamine (reflects ~2–3 weeks of average glucose)
- For higher-risk pets—overweight pets, those age 7+, or with a history of pancreatitis or long-term steroid use—we may also recommend a broader senior panel and blood pressure.
If Your Pet Is Diagnosed—There’s a Clear Plan
- Nutrition & weight: Prescription diets and gradual, vet-guided weight goals
- Insulin therapy (if prescribed): Easy training—most families master it quickly
- At-home monitoring: Glucose checks/curves and urine ketones as directed
- Follow-ups: A few rechecks early; then routine maintenance once stable
Most diabetic pets live happy, active lives with consistent routines and regular care.
Daily Success Tips
- Feed measured meals on a schedule
- Give medications at the same times each day (set phone reminders)
- Don’t change food, treats, or meds without checking with us
- Keep all recheck appointments to fine-tune dosing
- Holiday travel coming up? Ask us early about caregiver training and plans
When to Call Urgently
- Not eating, vomiting/diarrhea, weakness, or disorientation
- Sudden vision changes or squinting
- Labored breathing or collapse
Bonus: Senior Pets in November
November is also Adopt-A-Senior Pet Month. If your pet is 7+, ask about bundling a senior wellness panel with diabetes screening for efficient, cost-effective care.
Have questions or ready to schedule?
Call 252-243-6252 or request an appointment at brentwoodvetcenter.com.