Diabetes mellitus (diabetes) is a condition which occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin is a hormone which allows glucose in the blood to enter the cells. It is very important for overall health as the body uses glucose as its main source of energy.
When a pet suffers from diabetes, their body is unable to deliver enough energy for their cells to function normally. This can lead to a wide range of serious and potentially life-threatening health complications.
Just as in humans, pets can suffer from type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is also known as insulin-dependent and is the most common type of diabetes in dogs. Pets with type 1 diabetes require regular shots of insulin to manage their condition. Type 2 diabetes is non-insulin dependent, and can sometimes be regulated with diet and exercise. This type of diabetes is more common in cats.
If your pet has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes it is important to learn how to give insulin shots at home. Please refer to the following section of this fact sheet for step-by-step instructions on preparing and administering insulin injections.
Preparing Insulin Shots
General Guidelines
- Insulin should always be kept refrigerated to prevent it from deteriorating
- Never use insulin beyond its expiration date
- Always give your pet insulin after they have eaten so it can be properly absorbed into their bloodstream
- Your veterinarian will advise you on correct dosages and how often to administer insulin injections
- Use a new syringe and needle for each injection to minimize the risk of infection
Instructions
- Remove the protective packaging from the syringe, but leave the needle capped until you are ready to use it.
- Roll the bottle of insulin between the palms of your hands to make sure it is well mixed. Do not shake it, as this can break down the insulin molecules.
- Remove the protective cap from the needle and pull back the plunger on the syringe until you reach the correct dosage mark
- Hold the bottle of insulin upside down and insert the needle through the center of the rubber stopper.
- Depress the plunger so that air is forced into the bottle.
- Draw back on the plunger until the correct amount of insulin enters the syringe, then carefully withdraw the needle.
- Check for air bubbles. Depress the insulin into the bottle and start again if air bubbles are visible.
- Recap the needle.
- Place the insulin bottle back in the refrigerator.
Administering Insulin Shots
General Guidelines
- It is important to remain calm and steady when administering shots to avoid frightening or injuring your pet
- Reassure your pet throughout the process and reward them with praise and treats
- Please ask your veterinarian for advice on disposing of used needles and syringes
Instructions
- Sit your pet down in front of you in a comfortable position.
- Gently pinch and pull up an area of loose skin around your pet’s shoulder blades or back.
- Uncap the needle and push it gently into the skin at a 45-degree angle.
- Slowly depress the plunger to administer the insulin.
- Remove the needle and recap it.
- Dispose of the used needle and syringe according to your veterinarian’s advice.
Managing Diabetes
Pets with diabetes need to be closely monitored so their condition can be effectively managed. As well as regular insulin shots, treatment will typically involve dietary changes and a regular exercise routine.
A high-fiber diet and daily exercise are usually recommended for diabetic dogs. Regular exercise is also important for cats, along with a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet to help manage their condition. Please ask your veterinarian for advice on planning your pet’s diet and exercise regime.
Regular testing also plays a vital role in managing diabetes. Blood glucose testing can be performed at home and is an important tool for maintaining consistent control of blood glucose. In addition, you will need to visit your veterinarian regularly so that more complete tests can be performed.
Blood glucose and fructosamine curves can provide your veterinarian with detailed information about your pet’s condition. A blood glucose curve is used to measure your pet’s blood glucose levels over an extended period of time (normally 12-24 hours). For this reason, your pet will usually need to stay overnight in the veterinary clinic.
Fructosamine is a protein that binds to glucose. A fructosamine curve is a simple test that is used to monitor diabetic pets. It can usually be performed on an outpatient basis and involves taking a sample of your pet’s blood and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.
The results of blood glucose and fructosamine curves will allow your veterinarian to make changes to your pet’s treatment regime. This is very important for the ongoing management of their condition. Your veterinarian may also recommend other tests to monitor your diabetic pet.
