Diabetes Mellitus or Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is by far the most common in dogs. There are
probably instances of type 3 diabetes (diabetes secondary to another
illness, such as hyperadrenocorticism or pancreatitis) in dogs, but
I think this is a relatively uncommon thing.
Corticosteroids used chronically may predispose dogs to diabetes
mellitus. I am not aware of any correlation between diabetes and the
use of carprofen (Rimadyl Rx). We use a lot of corticosteroids here
in the Tidewater area due to the problems with allergies in our area
and we do not see a high correlation between the use of
corticosteroids and diabetes in our practice.
Diabetes mellitus can lead to a secondary myocarditis (malfunction
of the heart muscles). This can eventually cause heart failure. The
signs that this is happening include a decrease in activity or
weakness associated with normal activities, difficulty breathing or
increased respiratory rate, decrease in appetite and sometimes pain
or paralysis of the rear legs. Unfortunately, most of these signs
can also occur for other reasons, including other complications of
diabetes, like diabetic neuropathy leading to hind limb weakness or
decrease in appetite associated with a loss of control of insulin
regulation. With diabetes, it is important to work very closely with
your vet to monitor the treatment. Teamwork makes a huge difference
in the successful maintenance of a dog or cat with diabetes.
