Related: Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs and Cats
Hypoglycemia is a potential complication for any diabetic dog or cat. Hypoglycemia occurs when the blood glucose (blood sugar) level falls to an abnormally low level.
Hypoglycemia is a serious and potentially life-threatening situation for a dog or cat with diabetes.
Causes of Hypoglycemia in Diabetic Dogs and Cats
There are many things that can cause hypoglycemia in both dogs and cats that are not related to diabetes, including liver disease, starvation or malnutrition, toxins, cancers, infections and many others. As a result, it is possible for a diabetic dog or cat to experience hypoglycemia that is not related to diabetes.
However, the most common cause of diabetes-related hypoglycemia is overdosage of insulin.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Every diabetic pet owner should be aware of the signs of hypoglycemia and should be watching for them. The symptoms seen are:
- weakness
- collapse
- seizures
- tremors
Hypoglycemia can be fatal if not treated quickly.
Treating a Dog or Cat for Hypoglycemia
If your dog or cat is still conscious, you can give Karo syrup by mouth to increase the blood glucose level. Then transport to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
If your pet is unconscious, you can rub Karo syrup on his gums but being seen by his veterinarian is critical.
Your veterinarian will treat your dog or cat with glucose given intravenously. If the hypoglycemia is not related to diabetes, further testing to isolate the cause will be necessary.