One medical condition that tends to sneak up in a pet’s golden years is diabetes. It’s easy to mistake the early signs for “just aging,” but untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications in your animal companion’s health. The Colony Animal Clinic is passionate about partnering with cat and dog owners to make sure senior pets can enjoy their later years in comfort. Let’s take a closer look at how diabetes affects aging dogs and cats for National Pet Diabetes Month.
Why Older Pets Are More at Risk for Diabetes
The risk of developing diabetes increases as pets age. Their metabolism slows down, their pancreas may not work as efficiently, and they’re more likely to experience other health conditions that strain the body. Factors that can elevate risk in senior pets include:
- Weight gain or obesity
- Hormonal changes
- Chronic pancreatitis or certain other diseases
- Inactivity
- Certain medications (such as long-term steroid use)
Routine senior pet wellness exams stay ahead of these risks before they lead to diabetes or catch the disease early when it’s easier to manage.
Signs of Diabetes You Might Miss in a Senior Pet
Sometimes, the early symptoms of diabetes overlap with what many pet owners consider “normal aging,” which is why they’re often overlooked. It’s worth checking in with the vet if you’ve noticed any of the following diabetes symptoms. While these signs aren’t exclusive to diabetes, they indicate that your cat or dog has some kind of medical issue.
- Drinking more water than usual
- Frequent urination, including sudden accidents
- Weight loss despite eating well
- Slower movement or lower energy
- Cloudy eyes in dogs or weak back legs in cats
What Care Looks Like for an Old, Diabetic Pet
Caring for an older pet with diabetes requires patience, but it’s far from impossible. In fact, many diabetic senior pets respond well to a consistent treatment plan that includes some (or all) of the following elements.
Insulin is often needed twice a day for diabetic senior pets. The needles are very small, and most pets handle injections calmly, especially after a bit of practice.
Senior diabetic pets may need prescription food that addresses diabetes and other age-related needs like kidney support or joint health. Follow your veterinarian’s guidance on when to feed your cat or dog.
Movement is important, but for senior pets, it should be low-impact. Short walks or interactive play sessions are usually enough for most animal companions.
More frequent vet visits, diagnostics, and at-home/in-clinic glucose checks ensure your pet stays stable.
Managing More Than One Health Issue?
It’s common for older pets to have more than one health issue, and that’s where personalized care really matters. Diabetes may need to be managed alongside arthritis, dental issues, thyroid conditions, or vision problems. A veterinarian who knows your pet will be able to create a diabetes plan that takes any other medical issues into account.
Treatment for Diabetic Pets in The Colony, TX
If your senior pet gets diagnosed with diabetes, they can still continue enjoying life with tail wags, purrs, and snuggles. The Colony Animal Clinic treats pet diabetes in The Colony for cats and dogs from Castle Hills, Frisco, and The Colony, and neighboring Texas areas. Schedule a diabetes consultation with an experienced veterinarian at The Colony Animal Clinic.
