Blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, is essential for life in all animals including pets. It provides energy for cells and tissues. Maintaining healthy and stable blood glucose levels is important for overall health and well-being. However, abnormalities in blood glucose can occur in pets due to various reasons.
What is Blood Glucose?
Blood glucose, measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), refers to the amount of glucose present in the bloodstream. Glucose is a simple sugar that comes from the foods we eat and is the primary source of energy for cells. The pancreas plays a key role in maintaining healthy blood glucose levels through production of insulin, which facilitates the movement of glucose from blood into cells. Insulin signals cells to absorb glucose from blood for energy needs. If insulin is deficient or cells are resistant, glucose builds up in blood resulting in harmful effects.
Regulation of Blood Glucose
Veterinary Blood Glucose are tightly regulated by several hormones and enzymes in the body. After a meal, food is broken down into glucose that enters the bloodstream. The pancreas automatically detects rising blood glucose and releases the hormone insulin. Insulin allows cells to take up glucose from blood for energy needs of tissues. At the same time, glucagon hormone released by the pancreas signals the liver to break stored glycogen into glucose to maintain normal blood sugar levels between meals. This back-and-forth communication ensures blood glucose remains within a normal range.
Abnormalities in Blood Glucose
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia or low blood glucose refers to blood sugar levels lower than the normal range of 70-130 mg/dL. It is commonly seen due to inadequate intake of food, overdose of insulin or oral hypoglycemic drugs. Symptoms may include weakness, trembling, seizures, and loss of consciousness if severe. Treatment involves giving quick acting sugar supplements like corn syrup or honey.
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia refers to elevated blood glucose levels above 130 mg/dL. It is commonly seen in diabetic pets due to lack of insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or insulin resistance (Type 2). Symptoms include increased thirst, urination and appetite along with weight loss. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but focuses on managing insulin levels to keep blood sugar in normal range and prevent medical complications.
Diagnosis of Abnormalities
Blood glucose abnormalities are diagnosed through medical history, clinical signs and lab tests of blood glucose levels. A diagnosis of diabetes requires consistently high blood glucose levels both in the morning before feeding and 2 hours after feeding. Other diagnostic tests include urine glucose tests, complete blood count and chemistry profile. Radiography and ultrasonography help rule out other underlying diseases that can affect blood sugar regulation. Genetic testing is available for some breeds predisposed to diabetes.
Managing Blood Glucose Levels
Proper management of blood glucose levels in pets depends upon early and accurate diagnosis of abnormalities. Treatment involves lifestyle modifications like diet control along with use of medications.
For hypoglycemia, identifying and avoiding triggering factors coupled with adequately nourishing diets is key. For diabetic pets, maintaining stable blood glucose through multiple daily insulin injections, oral medications or modified insulin therapies minimize complications. Regular home monitoring of blood sugar levels also help achieve treatment goals. Prompt medical attention during fluctuating blood glucose prevents life-threatening emergencies.
With appropriate testing, diagnosis, lifestyle changes and medical treatment, pets can lead a healthy life managing blood glucose abnormalities. Early management prevents damaging effects on vital organs over time. With advances in veterinary medicine, pets can enjoy near-normal lifespans with proper care. Monitoring blood glucose certainly improves quality of life for diabetic and hypoglycemic pets.
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