Question
Why did my dog get diabetes? Did I cause it?
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
It's very common to feel guilty after the diagnosis and go over every meal and treat. You probably didn't cause this. Diabetes in dogs has many causes, including other illnesses, and most aren't things an owner could have prevented. Ask your vet what they think happened in your dog's case. What matters now is the care you give from here.
I never give insulin amounts here. Yours comes from your vet's written plan.
What to know at home
Dogs get diabetes when the body stops making enough insulin, or when something makes insulin work less well. Pancreas problems, hormones and some medicines can all play a part. Even so, the exact cause for one dog often isn't known, and that's normal.
What to write down
- Previous illnesses and medicines
- Weight and appetite changes before diagnosis
- Questions about anything you fear you missed
What to ask next
Ask your vet whether anything in your dog's history points to a cause, and whether another problem should be checked. If guilt is weighing on you, say so. Your vet can point you to support as well as medical answers.
Sources
- Are some breeds more likely to get diabetes?How breed fits in
- Will steroids or other medicines affect my dog's diabetes?Medicines that can affect insulin
- My dog has diabetes and Cushing's. How does that work?A hormone illness that affects insulin
- Am I doing the right thing for my dog?When you doubt yourself as an owner
- Starting out with a diabetic dogThe first weeks of care at home
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My puppy or young dog has diabetes. Is that different?
Yes, a young dog needs a plan made for his age and growth.
Guide
Starting out with a diabetic dog
From the diagnosis to a settled routine: what the tests mean, what to ask before you go home, how insulin and supplies work, and what the first weeks really look like.
Q&A
Does this mean my dog has diabetes?
Drinking more, peeing more and losing weight mean it's time to see a vet. Only the vet can tell you if it's diabetes.