November is National Pet Diabetes Month.
Diabetes is a common disease in both cats and dogs.
If left untreated, diabetes can be life threatening.
Diabetes is manageable and if detected early enough, pets with the disease can live a normal life when treated and medicated properly.
In some cases, diabetes can be reversed in cats.
Signs and symptoms of diabetes in pets include: Weight loss, cataracts, increase in water consumption, increase in appetite and increase in urination.
Obesity is one of the most common risk factors.
Certain steps can be taken to prevent diabetes like a well banlanced diet and exercise.
In cats, diabetes is similar to the human version of diabetes and can often be managed with a change of diet,
In dogs, diabetes must be managed with insulin.
Feeding your pet table food can not only cause diabetes but pancreatitis and upset stomach.
Veterinarians say fruits and vegetables are okay but you want to avoid onions, grapes and raisins because these can cause kidney failure.
Lean meats are okay as long as there are no seasonings such as spices, butter and oils.
Remember to keep all food given to your pet in moderation.
