Diabetes in Dogs and Cats: What Pet Owners Need to Know

3 min read

Just like humans, dogs and cats can develop diabetes—a condition where the body can’t properly regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels. Left untreated, it can cause serious health issues, but with early detection and proper management, diabetic pets can live happy, healthy lives.

In this post, we’ll break down what diabetes looks like in pets, common treatment options, and how you can manage the condition without breaking the bank.

Why Diabetes Happens in Pets

Diabetes in pets occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the body’s cells stop responding to it properly. This leads to elevated blood sugar, which over time can damage organs and affect overall health.

While any pet can develop diabetes, it’s more common in:

• Middle-aged to senior pets

• Overweight dogs and cats

• Certain breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers, Beagles, Burmese cats, and Siamese cats

Common Signs of Diabetes in Dogs and Cats

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a vet visit right

away:

• Increased thirst and urination

• Unexplained weight loss despite a good appetite

• Lethargy or decreased activity

• Cloudy eyes (dogs)

• Weakness in the back legs (cats)

🔍 Tip: Many of these signs can also be caused by other conditions, so only a vet can confirm diabetes through blood and urine tests.

How Diabetes is Treated in Pets

Treatment typically involves:

1. Insulin Injections – Most diabetic pets need daily insulin shots.

2. Specialized Diet – High-fiber diets for dogs and high-protein, low-carb diets for cats can help regulate blood sugar.

3. Regular Monitoring – Frequent vet visits and at-home glucose checks keep the condition under control.

💡 Cost-Saving Idea: Many types of insulin, such as Novolin N, can be purchased at human pharmacies—often for a fraction of the price at a vet’s office. Using a pet prescription discount card can lower costs even further.

Managing Diabetes on a Budget

Caring for a diabetic pet can be expensive, but there are ways to save:

• Ask your vet if a human-equivalent insulin or glucose monitor is appropriate.

• Use a prescription discount card to compare prices across local pharmacies.

• Buy in bulk when possible, especially for test strips and syringes.

📱 With a discount program like PawscriptionRx, pet owners often save 50% or more on diabetes medications and supplies.

Important Considerations

• Consistency is Key: Give insulin at the same time every day and stick to a regular feeding schedule.

• Monitor for Emergencies: Watch for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), such as tremors, disorientation, or seizures. If it happens, contact your vet immediately.

• Stay in Touch with Your Vet: Diabetes requires ongoing adjustments to medication and diet.

  
  

The Bottom Line

Diabetes in dogs and cats may be a lifelong condition, but with proper care, your pet can thrive for years. By recognizing the signs early, following your vet’s guidance, and using cost-saving strategies like a prescription discount card, you can manage your pet’s health without overwhelming your budget.

💵 Lower Costs – Fill insulin and supplies at human pharmacies when possible

🏠 Better Quality of Life – Keep your pet comfortable and active

📱 Access to Discounts – Use PawscriptionRx to save instantly on medications