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Question

Will steroids or other medicines affect my dog's diabetes?

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

Some can, including steroids, which can make insulin work less well. That doesn't mean you should stop a prescribed medicine yourself. Give your vet a full list, including creams, eye drops and supplements. When a medicine starts, stops or changes, ask what extra checks he needs. If he gets weak, vomits or won't eat, call your vet soon.

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I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.

What to know at home

The other medicine may be treating something important. The treatments need to fit together, so don't decide a product is safe or unsafe from its name. Make sure every vet who prescribes for your dog knows he has diabetes.

What to write down

  • All products, including non-prescription ones
  • Why each was prescribed
  • Appetite, thirst and energy changes since treatment began

What to ask next

Ask which changes mean you should call, and who will keep an eye on the diabetes alongside the other problem. If your dog gets weak, vomits or won't eat, call the vet soon. Don't wait to see if it settles.

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Sources

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.