Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 Diabetes, or Diabetes Mellitus, is also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes. This type of diabetes is usually caused because of an excess of insulin in the blood, so it does not require insulin injections to control. Most cases of diabetes are of this type and are usually caused from obesity. The excess fat in the body produces a hormone called “leptin” that interferes with the release of insulin from the pancreas. This causes insulin levels to remain high in the blood, even when there is an appropriate amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood (after eating).

Because insulin injections are not effective in controlling Diabetes Mellitus, dietary changes to promote weight loss and to control insulin levels are the only option. When an animal is suspected of Diabetes Mellitus, they are hospitalized for the day in order to perform a blood glucose panel at various points throughout the day. After the blood sugar range of your pet is determined, the veterinarian will work with you to design a diet plan that is appropriate according to their size, eating habits, blood sugar ranges and schedule.

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