Question
How can I tell if my diabetic dog is dehydrated?
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
Diabetic dogs lose a lot of water through peeing, so dehydration can creep up, especially with heat, vomiting or diarrhoea. Signs can include dry or sticky gums, sunken eyes, tiredness and not wanting to eat. Keep fresh water out all the time. If he's vomiting, not drinking, weak or very sleepy, call your vet now. This can be serious.
What to know at home
Dehydration in a diabetic dog can go along with ketoacidosis, which needs a vet quickly. If a dog who was drinking a lot suddenly stops, don't take it as a good sign. Don't try giving fluids under the skin at home unless your vet has trained you and asked you to.
What to write down
- When he last drank, ate, peed and vomited
- Gum colour and how he's moving
- Whether insulin was given and when
What to ask next
If you have urine strips, a ketone result can help the vet, but don't delay calling to test. Don't take water away. If he collapses or is breathing strangely, go to an emergency clinic now.
Sources
- Emergency or low blood sugar: call your vet nowWhen to go to an emergency vet
- What if a urine strip shows ketones?What ketones mean for a sick dog
- Why is my diabetic dog drinking so much?Why diabetic dogs drink so much
- How do I care for a diabetic dog in hot weather?Keeping him cool with water out
- My diabetic dog has diarrhoea or an upset stomach.Diarrhoea and upset stomach
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
What if a urine strip shows ketones?
Ketones on a strip mean a call to your vet today. Call now if he's vomiting, weak or flat.
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
My diabetic dog has diarrhoea or an upset stomach.
If an upset stomach is putting your diabetic dog off his food, tell your vet the same day.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.