Articles
-
Dexamethasone is used to test the level of cortisol hormone in the body. Injection of dexamethasone will cause a decreased level of cortisol in a normal pet; however, in a pet with Cushing's disease, there is minimal or no decrease in cortisol level. Other diseases can suppress cortisol production, so it is important to rule these out prior to dexamethasone testing. Knowing the type of Cushing's disease your pet has can guide treatment decisions and offers a more defined prognosis.
-
Dexmedetomidine is a sedative and tranquilizer used in the treatment of fear and anxiety in dogs (Sileo) and as a sedative and pain medication in both dogs and cats (Dexdomitor). It is also used off label (extra label) as a pre-anesthetic or tranquilizer in exotic pets.
-
Dextromethorphan is given by mouth and is used off label to treat compulsive behaviors and occasionally used to treat cough. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, sleepiness, drooling or anxiousness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it.
-
Dextromethorphan + Guaifenesin is a combination medication used off-label to reduce cough in cats and dogs. It is also used to treat compulsive behavior in cats and dogs. This medication is given by mouth in the form of an oral tablet and may be compounded into other forms.
-
Testing for diabetes includes confirming hyperglycemia and glucosuria while looking for other conditions by taking a complete blood count (anemia, infection), biochemistry profile (hepatic disease, pancreatitis), and a urinalysis (urinary tract infection). Monitoring includes regular glucose curves and additional exams and testing based on the pet owner's monitoring of their dog's clinical signs at home. Urine glucose testing and fructosamine are sometimes used in diabetic monitoring and urine testing for infection may be recommended.
-
Diabetes insipidus results in excessive drinking and urination. As many conditions cause these signs, a number of diagnostic tests including bloodwork and urinalysis need to be performed to rule out other causes. After more common causes are ruled out, a modified water deprivation test can confirm disease and an MRI or therapeutic trial can be performed. Diabetes insipidus results from reduced production of ADH from the brain or reduced sensitivity to ADH in the kidney. Treatment depends on the cause of the disease either replacing the lack of ADH with a synthetic replacement or using a hydrochlorothiazide and a low salt diet to decrease urine production.
-
Contenido en español actualizado.
Translated from the original English article Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs: Overview -
Diabetes is an inability of the body to regulate blood sugar caused by an abnormality of the pancreas. It causes increased thirst, urination, appetite, and weight loss. Most dogs have type 1 diabetes, caused by total or near destruction of the insulin-producing cells, and insulin injections are required for treatment. Diabetes is diagnosed by measuring increased levels of glucose in the urine and blood. Diabetes treatment includes insulin injections and dietary manipulation with regular blood sugar monitoring. Financial costs can be high during the regulation period, or if a complication arises, and twice-daily insulin injections are a lifelong commitment.
-
Diabetes mellitus results from an inadequate production of insulin from the pancreas. The primary treatment is replacement by insulin injections. The body's response to the injections needs to be regularly monitored using an at-home glucometer or continuous glucose monitoring system. Insulin must be stored and reconstituted carefully to ensure dosing is accurate. Giving subcutaneous injections of insulin can seem daunting at first, but by following the directions in this handout, it will quickly become second nature to both you and your pet.
-
Dogs usually have insulin-dependent diabetes (also called Type 1 diabetes), and require insulin injections to stabilize their blood sugar levels. This handout outlines the basics of treatment and monitoring, and also discusses the importance of diet.