Weight, walks, and other illness
Thirst, weight, eyes, walks, and signs that need a vet straight away.
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
- My diabetic dog is losing weight2 minWrite down his weight and what he eats. If he keeps losing, see your vet before you feed him more.
- My diabetic dog needs to lose weight2 minLet your vet set the target. Keep his walks normal in the meantime.
- How do I measure my diabetic dog's meals?3 minUse the same scale or the same cup every time, and stick to the amount your vet gave you.
- How should walks work for a diabetic dog?3 minThe same walk every day is best. A much harder day can drop his glucose, so ask first.
- My diabetic dog seems weak or wobbly after a walk3 minStop. Call your vet or an emergency clinic now. If your vet gave you a written plan for a low, follow it.
- Why is my diabetic dog drinking so much?3 minNote how much he's drinking compared with a normal week. Your vet will work out why.
- When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?4 minIf he's weak, trembling, collapsing, vomiting or won't eat, call your vet now. Read the rest later.
- My diabetic dog is going blind4 minCataracts are common in diabetic dogs. Many cope well if it happens slowly. Ask your vet about surgery.
- How do I keep a blind diabetic dog safe at home?2 minKeep the furniture where it is, talk to him before you touch him, and block the stairs if he misses them.
- Could a urine infection be part of this?2 minStraining, blood, a strong smell or new accidents mean a vet visit. Don't use leftover medicine.
- My diabetic dog has had pancreatitis. What about food?3 minMany vets use a very low-fat food. Your vet will choose the right one for him.
- What should I write in a notebook for my diabetic dog?2 minFood, mood, water, injection times and your questions. Keep it short.
- How do I feed a diabetic dog alongside my other pets?3 minFeed your diabetic dog separately and watch him eat, so you know what he actually ate.
- How do I care for a diabetic dog in hot weather?3 minKeep clean water out, and keep your diabetic dog and his insulin out of the heat.
- Can I leave my diabetic dog alone while I work?3 minWhether your dog can stay alone while you work depends on how settled their diabetes is, the care plan and how long you're out.
- How do I look after his skin and paws in the rainy season?3 minWet, humid weeks can be tough on a diabetic dog's skin, because diabetes can make infections more likely.
- Can fireworks, guests or a house move upset his diabetes?3 minBig changes at home, like fireworks, a houseful of guests or moving house, can unsettle any dog.
- My dog lives outdoors or on the terrace. Does that matter now?3 minPlenty of dogs spend most of their time outside or on a terrace. With diabetes, it's harder to notice changes there.
- How do I weigh a big dog at home?3 minWeight is one of the clearest signs of how diabetes is going, and big dogs are hard to weigh at home.
- We're planning a long hike or a busy day out. What should I think about?3 minA long hike, a day of play or a trip to the hills can be lovely for a diabetic dog, but extra exercise can make his sugar drop.