Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine pancreatic disorder of cats and dogs. The incidence of diabetes in cats and dogs is reported to be anywhere from 1 in 100 to 1 in 500 pets.

Diabetes is classified at type 1 or type 2. Type 1 diabetes is also called insulin dependent diabetes. In this disorder, there is destruction of the beta cells (insulin-producing cells) of the pancreas. Treatment involves replacing insulin through insulin injections given 1-2 times per day.

Type 2 diabetes is also called non-insulin dependent diabetes, as insulin is usually not required for treating pets with this disorder. Insulin resistance and dysfunctional beta cells, rather than permanent destruction of beta cells, are seen in pets with type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is the most common type. Most (if not all) dogs have type 1 diabetes; approximately 50-70% of cats have type1 diabetes, with the remainder having type 2 diabetes.

Causes of type 1 diabetes include immune mediated destruction of the beta cells of the pancreas in dogs and amyloidosis (deposition of amyloid protein in the pancreas) in cats. Other causes of diabetes in dogs and cats include obesity (probably the most common cause of type 2 diabetes in cats,) genetics, infection, pancreatitis, and administration of certain medications (corticosteroids, progesterone compounds.)

Treatment Options (Always Consult Your Veterinarian)

Antioxidants – Antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E, minerals such as selenium, and other substances such as coenzyme Q-10, bilberry, blueberry, resveratrol, OPC’s, etc., work by reducing cell-harming oxidizing chemicals released upon cell damage and death.

Diet – High fiber for dogs, high protein/low carbohydrates for cats (canned food preferred)

Glandular Therapy – Adrenal glandular supplements use whole animal tissues or extracts of the adrenal gland which have activity against specific activity and contain active substances that can exert physiologic effects.

Supplementation with glandular supplements may also provide specific nutrients such as natural hormones to the pet. They also function as a source of enzymes, lipids, and steroids that may help the pet to produce its own adrenal hormones.

Choline – 50 mg per 25-50 pounds of body weight 1-2 times daily.

Herbs – Burdock root, calendula, dandelion leaf/root, garlic, gymnema, panax ginseng, yucca.

Homeopathy – Syzygium

Homotoxicology – Syzygium compositum

Contributed by Dr. Shawn Messonnier, DVM