Question
Are pain and arthritis medicines safe for a diabetic dog?
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
When your dog gets stiff and sore, you'll want to help him quickly. Pain relief has to suit his other illnesses and medicines as well as the diabetes, so ask your vet to check the exact medicine or supplement against everything else he takes. Never give human painkillers or leftover pet medicine without asking. If he seems sore, get him checked.
What to know at home
If you're asking about a joint supplement, it's probably because he's moving or sleeping worse. Tell the vet about those changes first. Then they can look for the cause of the pain, think about his other illnesses, and decide what checks he needs.
What to write down
- Pain, mobility and sleep changes
- Full medicine and supplement list
- Appetite, vomiting or other new symptoms
What to ask next
Ask what difference you should see, when to check back, and which side effects mean you should call. If a medicine worries you, ring the vet rather than stopping or swapping it on your own.
Sources
- Will steroids or other medicines affect my dog's diabetes?How other medicines affect diabetes
- Are allergy medicines like Apoquel safe for a diabetic dog?Checking a new medicine against everything else
- Weak back legs or neuropathy: is it the diabetes?When his legs or movement get worse
- What should I write in a notebook for my diabetic dog?Noting changes for your vet
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.