With diabetes, the body either produces insufficient quantities of insulin or does not utilize insulin effectively. Glucose then builds up in the bloodstream and causes an elevated blood sugar level.
High levels of glucose can lead to a number of complications such as cataracts, liver and kidney disease, increased infections, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders and even coma and death.
What are the symptoms of Diabetes in cats and dogs?
Symptoms for canine and feline diabetes can take weeks to become fully apparent. Cats that are over seven-years-old are more apt to develop diabetes than younger ones. However, dogs are susceptible throughout their entire lives. Symptoms differ slightly between the two:
Dogs:
- Severe weight loss or gain
- Excessive drinking and frequent urination
- Cataracts and Blindness
Cats:
- Severe weight loss or gain
- Excessive drinking and frequent urination
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Weakness in the the back legs
Because some of these symptoms are seen in other diseases, a blood sugar test is recommended for proper diagnosis of diabetes.
What causes diabetes?
The exact cause of diabetes is unknown. However there are certain risk factors. These include obesity, an unhealthy diet, cortisone treatments, stress and shock. Genetics may also play a role.
What is the conventional treatment?
Conventional treatment for diabetes in cats and dogs usually includes regular insulin injections and/or a strictly controlled diet.
Current research indicates that a low-carbohydrate, high protein diet is beneficial for cats and dogs with diabetes.
How can herbal remedies and dietary supplements help?
Along with a change in lifestyle (healthy diet, exercise...), natural remedies can also benefit a family pet that is suffering from diabetes. Used appropriately, herbal remedies can even eliminate the need for prescription medication in some cases. If you, as the owner, are looking for a more holistic approach to dealing with pet diabetes, look for medications with the following ingredients:
- Galega Officinalis – The use of Galega Officinalis improves the part of the pancreas that is responsible for the production of insulin.
- Chromium – Chromium is effective in improving the effectiveness of insulin. It is also helpful in balancing cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Bilberry – Bilberry is a natural ingredient that can stimulate insulin production as well as reducing the blood sugar levels in animals suffering with Type II diabetes. Billberry has also shown an ability to improve vision, promote speedy recovery wound and tissue healing and other circulation issues associated with diabetes.
Along with exercise and herbal therapies, Dr. Colleen Smith suggests changing your pet's diet to a high protein, moderate fat and low carbohydrate diet. Innova, Solid Gold, and California Naturals are a few that she recommends and they can be found in specialty pet stores.
GlucoBalance by PetAlive
This natural herbal formula controls blood sugar levels and improves insulin availability and production for diabetic dogs and cats.
To purchase or read more about GlucoBalance...
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