Dog Diabetes Series 2: Managing Diabetes—A Guide to Daily Care and Nutrition

By Dr. Ryan Chuang

Management is the cornerstone of stabilizing a diabetic dog. Because canine diabetes is highly sensitive to routine, consistent home care is essential to maintaining your dog's health and preventing life-threatening complications.

1. Primary Medical Care

• Insulin Consistency: Most dogs require twice-daily insulin injections, administered approximately 12 hours apart.

• Hypoglycemia Awareness: While we aim to lower high blood sugar, preventing low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) is critical. If blood sugar drops too low, it can lead to seizures or death.

• Hydration & Electrolytes: Unstable glucose levels can lead to dehydration and potassium imbalances. Regular clinical monitoring is necessary to ensure internal stability.

2. Dietary Strategies for Success

• Nutritional Balance: Unlike diabetic cats who requires high protein and low carb diet, diabetic dogs requires higher fiber with complex carbohydrate diet, however since many diabetic dogs tend to have sensitive digestive system, in order to prevent from upset stomach symptoms or pancreatitis, I usually recommend gastrointestinal prescription wet food.

• The Wet Food Advantage: Dry kibble often causes significant post-meal glucose spikes. Transitioning to wet food can lead to more stable readings and better hydration.

• Portion Control: Feed according to your dog's "ideal weight." Do not give extra food or treats just because they seem hungry; overfeeding creates a vicious cycle of high glucose.

• Probiotic Support: Diabetes can disrupt the gut microbiome. Probiotics are often beneficial, particularly for dogs prone to gastrointestinal sensitivities.

3. Establishing a Strict Routine

For stable glucose control, consistency is everything:

• Fixed Feeding Times: Establish two fixed meal times per day and keep the food type and portion size identical for every meal.

• Injections & Meals: Insulin is usually administered shortly after feeding, though the exact timing may be adjusted based on your dog's specific glucose curve.

• Weight Management: Gradual weight loss through controlled portions and moderate, regular exercise significantly improves insulin sensitivity.

4. When to Call Your Vet

Contact us immediately if you notice any of the following signs:

• Appetite Changes: Sudden voracious hunger or a refusal to eat.

• Digestive Distress: Vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of abdominal pain.

• Hydration Changes: A sudden return of excessive drinking or urination.

• Weakness: Lethargy, trembling, or unusual weakness in the limbs.

(Article by Dr. Ryan Chuang. Reproduction without permission is prohibited; sharing with original attribution is welcomed.)

Appointments & Inquiries

For any medical needs or assistance, please contact Paws and Tails Veterinary Hospital:

• Phone: 2832 2836

• WhatsApp: 9870 5711

• Website: www.pawsandtailshk.com

• Address: 4 Po Yan Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong