Question
Insulinoma: what is it and how is it different?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
An insulinoma is a tumour that releases insulin and can cause dangerously low blood sugar. That's close to the opposite of diabetes, where the body doesn't have enough working insulin. The two are treated very differently. If your dog is weak, collapses or has a seizure, this is an emergency. Call your vet or an emergency clinic straight away.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
One low reading doesn't mean a tumour. Your vet checks glucose and insulin levels together and may suggest a scan or a specialist. Never starve your dog at home to try to bring on an episode for a test.
What to write down
- Timing and description of episodes
- Food and activity beforehand
- Previous results and all medicines
What to ask next
Ask the vet to explain what has actually been confirmed and what the treatment options are, and to give you a written plan for emergencies. If your dog collapses or has a seizure, get emergency help straight away. Don't wait for it to happen again first.
Sources
- Emergency or low blood sugar: call your vet nowWhat to do for dangerously low sugar
- What should I keep ready in case my dog goes low?Keeping a written plan for lows
- Is one glucose number enough?Why one low reading isn't enough to go on
- My diabetic dog also has cancer or another serious illness.When a tumour or serious illness is involved
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My dog has diabetes and Cushing's. How does that work?
Yes, a dog can have both, and your vet will treat them as one plan.
Q&A
When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?
If he's weak, trembling, collapsing, vomiting or won't eat, call your vet now. Read the rest later.
Q&A
What should I write in a notebook for my diabetic dog?
Food, mood, water, injection times and your questions. Keep it short.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.