
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) due to the body's inability to produce sufficient insulin or effectively use insulin. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps regulate blood sugar by facilitating glucose uptake into cells for energy.
What are the causes?
Diabetes mellitus includes Type 1, where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells; Type 2, marked by insulin resistance or insufficient insulin often linked to obesity and genetics; and gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy and raises future diabetes risk.
Clinical signs?
Clinical signs include increased thirst and urination, unintended weight loss, fatigue, weakness, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds.
Management of diabetes?
Diabetes management involves a species-appropriate diet, regular exercise, medications like insulin or oral drugs to regulate blood sugar, and consistent monitoring to maintain glucose levels. Diets comprised primarily of animal protein, animal fat, and low-glycemic vegetables don't require insulin to produce energy. Type 2 diabetes can be reversed when dogs are fed the proper diet.
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