Question
How do surgery, dental cleaning and anaesthesia work 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
A diabetic dog needs his own plan for surgery or a dental clean, covering food, insulin, checks and recovery. Get clear instructions from your vet beforehand. Don't just follow the usual no-food-the-night-before advice. Ask who will manage his diabetes while he's in, and what to do if he won't eat afterwards.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
Whether he's ready depends on the procedure, his health now and any other illnesses, not just his age or the diabetes. A painful tooth needs treating too, so try not to keep putting it off because you're scared.
What to write down
- Current plan and all medicines
- Recent glucose records requested by the clinic
- Other illnesses and previous anaesthetic concerns
What to ask next
Ask for written instructions for dropping him off and bringing him home, including who to call if he won't eat. If two vets tell you different things, ask them to agree on one plan before you do anything.
Sources
- Check-up or blood test day: do I still feed him and give insulin?Feeding and insulin on a clinic day
- Do I feed my diabetic dog before the insulin?Why food and insulin go together
- My diabetic dog won't eat — what now?What to do if he will not eat afterwards
- Different vets told me different things. Who do I believe?Getting two vets to agree one plan
- What can a senior diabetic dog with bad teeth eat?Why a painful tooth needs treating
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.