November is National Pet Diabetes Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes in our furry companions. Diabetes isn’t just a human disease; it impacts approximately one in 300 adult dogs and one in 230 cats in the United States. Early prevention and detection can lead to a healthier, happier life for your pet, which is why we’re shedding some light on the top five risk factors. And, we’re sharing how regular activity, like dog walking and interactive cat sitting, can make a big difference!
Understanding Pet Diabetes
Pet diabetes happens when your cat or dog’s body is unable to produce or efficiently use insulin, the hormone that allows cells to absorb sugar from the bloodstream. Uncontrolled diabetes causes excessive sugar in the blood. It leads to lethargy, increased thirst, more frequent urination, and, if untreated, severe complications. While diabetes is chronic, it can often be managed well with treatment, weight control, and a tailored lifestyle.
Learn more about diagnostics and screening for pet diabetes here.
Top 5 Risk Factors for Diabetes in Cats and Dogs
- Obesity: Overweight pets are much more likely to develop diabetes. Excess fat can affect how the body uses insulin, leading directly to issues with sugar regulation.
- Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds are genetically more susceptible. For dogs, breeds like Poodles, Samoyeds, Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, and Labrador Retrievers are at higher risk. For cats, Burmese and Maine Coons, among others, may be more prone.
- Age: Middle-aged and older pets are more commonly diagnosed. As pets age, their metabolism and hormone regulation change, increasing vulnerability to chronic conditions like diabetes.
- Diet and Lifestyle: Overfeeding, especially with high-calorie treats or table scraps, combined with a lack of exercise, contributes heavily to weight gain and metabolic problems. Cats that eat mainly high-carb dry food, or dogs with limited physical activity, face a greater risk.
- Other Health Conditions: Diseases like pancreatitis or Cushing’s disease, and certain medications, can disrupt hormone activity and raise diabetes risk. For cats, chronic urinary tract infections, and for dogs, prolonged steroid use may predispose them.
Exercise: The Secret Weapon Against Diabetes in Pets
While risk factors abound, the good news is that you can help ward off diabetes by engaging in regular, vigorous exercise. Active walks for dogs, playful fetch sessions, and adventure-filled outings help manage a healthy weight and balance blood sugar. Likewise, playtime with a caring cat sitter, including creative enrichment games at home, is vital for indoor cats, who may be prone to inactivity and weight gain.
Movement keeps muscles toned, reduces stress, and signals the body to use sugar efficiently. In pets, as it is in humans, exercise is a prevention strategy we should all get behind!
Preventive Care To Keep Diabetes at Bay
- Schedule annual vet visits, or biannual if your pet has risk factors, to catch diabetes early.
- Stick to feeding guidelines—avoid table scraps and limit treat intake.
- Keep exercise routines fresh and consistent, whether it’s daily walks or interactive play sessions.
Embracing healthy habits is the first step to preventing diabetes and ensuring years of joy with your pet. Celebrate National Pet Diabetes Month by scheduling dog walks and extra playtime with your trusted friends at PCPSI. Your pets will thank you with wagging tails and contented purrs, and you’ll be improving their quality of life, today and as they age. Learn more about our dog walking services and cat sitting visits here.
Dog Walking & Cat Sitting in the Dallas Metroplex
Park Cities Pet Sitter, Inc. has been providing outstanding, trusted dog walking, pet sitting, cat sitting, and other services in the Park Cities and other areas of the Dallas Metroplex for over 30 years. To learn more about our services, please visit our FAQs and contact us at 214-828-0192 and pets@pcpsi.com. Alternatively, you can register via our client portal, available here. Existing clients, please submit reservations via this link.
We proudly serve these Dallas neighborhoods & surrounding suburbs: Bluffview, Deep Ellum, Downtown, Highland Park, Knox Henderson, Lake Highlands, Lakewood, Lower Greenville, Medical District, North Dallas, Oak Lawn, Northwest Dallas, Northeast Dallas, Old East Dallas, Preston Hollow, Turtle Creek, University Park, Victory Park.
If you are outside of our service area, check the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) or Pet Sitters International (PSI) to find a pet sitter near you.
