Reasons Why 20% of Diabetic Cats and Dogs Are Euthanised Within a Year

Diabetic cats and dogs are increasingly common, and while the diagnosis can be shocking for pet owners, it’s crucial to understand that diabetes is a manageable condition. Yet, statistics reveal a concerning trend: about 20% of diabetic cats and dogs are euthanised within a year of diagnosis.

This raises pressing questions about the challenges pet owners face and the factors influencing such decisions. Understanding these challenges can pave the way for better management and improved outcomes for pets and their families.

The Financial and Emotional Strain of Diabetes Management

One of the primary reasons for euthanasia is the financial burden associated with managing diabetes in pets. Treatment often involves daily insulin injections, routine glucose monitoring, and frequent veterinary visits, which can strain household budgets.

The cost of insulin, syringes, glucose meters, and testing strips quickly adds up. For some owners, especially those with multiple pets or limited income, these expenses can be overwhelming.

Beyond finances, the emotional strain is significant. Managing a diabetic pet demands a high level of commitment and consistency. Owners must adhere to strict feeding schedules, monitor blood glucose levels, and remain vigilant for signs of complications such as hypoglycemia.

Read : Global Diabetes Cases Double in 30 Years: 800 Million People Worldwide Affected

These responsibilities can feel relentless, leading to burnout and emotional exhaustion. For some, euthanasia becomes a heartbreaking but necessary choice when they feel unable to provide the required level of care.

Challenges in Recognising and Managing the Disease

Early detection and diagnosis of diabetes in pets play a critical role in their prognosis. However, many owners fail to recognize the subtle early signs, such as increased thirst, urination, or weight loss.

In cats, changes like a flat-footed stance or reduced jumping ability often go unnoticed until the disease progresses. For dogs, cataracts may develop, further complicating their health and quality of life.

Read : India’s alarming sugar consumption in 2022 led to a diabetes epidemic

Delayed diagnosis can lead to severe health decline, requiring emergency interventions and increased medical costs. The complexity of managing diabetes in its advanced stages, particularly when ketones form and lead to life-threatening conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, can deter owners from pursuing further treatment.

The stress of monitoring and administering insulin injections multiple times daily also contributes to the decision for euthanasia.

Hope Through Education and Early Intervention

While the statistics are sobering, they also underscore the importance of education and early intervention. For cats, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment with long-acting insulin and a low-carbohydrate diet can significantly improve the chances of remission. Weight management plays a pivotal role, as obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes in cats.

Dogs, on the other hand, rarely achieve remission due to the irreversible nature of type 1 diabetes. However, advances in insulin therapies, such as porcine lente and protamine zinc insulins, allow for better glucose control and an improved quality of life.

For both cats and dogs, newer technologies like continuous glucose monitors offer owners a less invasive and more effective way to track blood glucose levels, reducing the guesswork in treatment plans.

Strategies for Managing diabetic cats and Dogs

Effective management of diabetes in pets involves a multifaceted approach:

• Dietary Changes: A low-carbohydrate diet is crucial for diabetic cats, as it enhances remission rates when combined with long-acting insulin. In dogs, a consistent feeding schedule and a balanced diet help stabilize blood glucose levels.
• Weight Management: Gradual weight loss for overweight pets is essential. For cats, the safe rate is 1-2% of body weight per week, often achieved through dietary adjustments like adding steamed zucchini to meals.
• Monitoring and Adjustments: Home glucose monitoring allows for precise insulin dose adjustments. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to track progress and address complications promptly.
• Emotional Support: Joining support groups or consulting with veterinary professionals can help owners cope with the emotional and logistical challenges of managing a diabetic pet.

Raising awareness about the early symptoms of diabetes and the importance of prompt veterinary care can significantly reduce the number of euthanasia cases. Educated pet owners are more likely to recognize warning signs early and seek treatment before the disease progresses. Vets also play a crucial role in demystifying the disease and providing owners with manageable care plans tailored to their pet’s specific needs.

Advances Offering Hope

Recent advancements in diabetes management for pets have transformed the outlook for many. SGLT2 inhibitors, though primarily used for cats, offer a promising alternative to insulin injections in the early stages of type 2 diabetes.

Continuous glucose monitors have also made tracking blood sugar levels easier and less stressful, providing a clearer picture of a pet’s overall health.

For cats, achieving remission is a realistic goal in up to 80% of newly diagnosed cases when managed effectively. This offers hope to owners and reduces the long-term burden of care. Even for dogs, where remission is rare, consistent care ensures a good quality of life despite the chronic nature of the disease.

While the challenges of managing diabetes in pets are undeniable, understanding the reasons behind high euthanasia rates highlights areas for improvement.

With better education, early diagnosis, and accessible treatment options, more pets can lead fulfilling lives. The commitment required to manage the disease is significant, but advances in veterinary medicine and technology continue to make it more feasible for pet owners.

Diabetes in pets is not a death sentence. With proper care, monitoring, and emotional support, both cats and dogs can enjoy happy, healthy lives despite their diagnosis.