AT this time of year it is often easy to forget the importance of good health and welfare in our pets. Okeford Veterinary Centre, in Okehampton, this week said diabetes in animals often goes unnoticed and can have fatal consequences. In January they will be holding free diabetic clinics with their qualified nurses. 'Heather' is an eleven year old West Highland White terrier who was diagnosed with diabetes 18 months ago. The vets say because of regular monitoring, a special diabetic diet and daily insulin injections from her dedicated owner she now enjoys a happy, healthy life. The symptoms for diabetes in cats or dogs include lethargy, weight loss despite constant hunger, depression and the animals being constantly thirsty. These symptoms are associated with Diabetes Mellitus or sugar diabetes. A spokesman for Okeford Veterinary Centre said: 'Diabetes Mellitus occurs when your pet cannot produce enough insulin. Insulin is the hormone which allows your pet to utilise the sugar in its diet. 'If the diabetes is not treated your pet can become very ill. 'They will have to use body fat as an energy source, which leads to harmful toxins, ketones, being produced. 'This can result in a severe illness called ketoacidosis that can prove fatal.' A simple blood or urine test is used to detect the glucose level in the animal's blood. Early diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is important as it gives pets the best chance to live a long, healthy and active life. The diabetes can be successfully controlled by a regular routine of insulin injections, careful feeding and regular exercise. If you have any concerns that your pet is showing diabetic symptoms then the vets can be contacted on 01837 52148 for an appointment.
