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Why does my diabetic dog keep having seizures?
As either of those organs fail, toxins build up in their blood stream. When these toxins reach the brain, seizures can occur. Also, older dogs are more likely to have diabetes mellitus.
If they become hypoglycemic (have low blood sugar), they may have seizures
.
What do I do when my dog has a diabetic seizure?
If your pet is unconscious or having a seizure, this is a medical emergency.
CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN
. In the meantime, you should immediately treat your pet rather than delaying management. Pour a small amount of a sugar solution (eg, corn syrup) onto your finger and then rub the sugar solution onto your pet’s gums.
Can high blood sugar cause seizures?
Hyperglycemia is the medical term for high blood sugar. Although it’s a common complication of diabetes, hyperglycemia can happen to anyone.
If left untreated, high blood sugar can lead to hyperglycemia-related seizures
.
What happens if my dog’s blood sugar is too high?
Excessive sugar builds up in the dog’s bloodstream, and yet the body’s cells that need that sugar can’t access it. So the “bad” effects that diabetes causes in the dog’s body are twofold:
Cells are starved for vital “fuel.” Muscle cells and certain organ cells are deprived of the glucose “fuel” they need for energy
.
What are the final stages of diabetes in dogs?
Finally, they will develop the
diabetic ketoacidosis complication
which will lead to vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and decreased appetite,” Puchot explains. These symptoms, along with tremors or seizures and abnormal breathing patterns, could be signs your dog with diabetes is dying.
What does a diabetic seizure look like?
To recognize a diabetic seizure, look for symptoms such as
staring into space, confusion, muscle weakness, loss of consciousness, or uncontrollable body movements
.
Can untreated diabetes in dogs cause seizures?
Many owners don’t realize diabetes can affect pets too, and often have many questions when they learn their dog or cat is diabetic.
If left untreated, diabetes can lead to seizures
, a coma, or death. The disease can also lead to other health problems over time.
Should I put my dog down if he has seizures?
If your dog only experiences one seizure and is otherwise healthy, then you don’t need to consider putting it down
. However, if your dog is having multiple seizures and does not respond well to treatment, then euthanasia may be the best decision for both you and your pet.
Can a drop in blood sugar cause seizures in dogs?
Clinical signs of hypoglycemia
Clinical signs may include altered mentation and behavior, seizures, syncope, muscle twitching/fasciculations, somnolence, exercise intolerance, muscle tremors, collapse, ataxia, weakness, and impaired vision
.
What can trigger a seizure in a dog?
- Epilepsy.
- Heat Exhaustion.
- Nutritional imbalances such as thiamine deficiency.
- Low blood sugar levels.
- Liver disease.
- Tumors.
Did my dog have a seizure?
What Are the Symptoms of Seizures? Symptoms can include
collapsing, jerking, stiffening, muscle twitching, loss of consciousness, drooling, chomping, tongue chewing, or foaming at the mouth
. Dogs can fall to the side and make paddling motions with their legs. They sometimes poop or pee during the seizure.
What blood sugar causes seizures?
Substantial changes in blood sugar—either
low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
—can affect the excitability of nerve cells (neurons), allowing seizures to occur more easily.
What happens after a diabetic seizure?
People experiencing hypoglycemia often experience headaches, dizziness, sweating, shaking, and a feeling of anxiety. When a person experiences diabetic shock, or severe hypoglycemia, they may
lose consciousness, have trouble speaking, and experience double vision
.
How long can a dog live with high blood sugar?
Life Expectancy for Dogs With Diabetes
If you are able to give your dog insulin, diabetes may not affect life expectancy. “If they live past the first three months, they do really well. Excluding dogs that don’t make it through those first few months,
the median survival is two years
,” Dr. Behrend says.
How do you know when to put your diabetic dog down?
- Chronic vomiting.
- Weight loss.
- Lack of appetite.
- Lethargy.
- Disinterest in things they once enjoyed.
- Chronic diarrhea.
- Urinating around the house.
- Constant UTI’s.
When should you put a diabetic dog down?
If your total score is above 35, then your dog’s quality of life is acceptable.
If, however, your score is below 35
, you should consider euthanasia. Also remember to always discuss your options with your vet to make sure you are making the right decision, regardless of the quality of life scale assessment.
Are eggs good for diabetic dogs?
Yes, eggs are good for a diabetic dog
because they are a good protein source and won’t cause a rise in blood sugar levels. A healthy, nutritious and balanced diet is one of the keys to overall health.
What are the warning signs of a diabetic coma?
- Increased thirst.
- Frequent urination.
- Fatigue.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Shortness of breath.
- Stomach pain.
- Fruity breath odor.
- A very dry mouth.
What are ketones in diabetic dogs?
The body cannot use glucose properly without insulin, so blood glucose levels get very high, and
the body creates ketone bodies from fat as an emergency fuel source
. While fine in an emergency, if glucose regulation is not restored, ketone levels increase resulting in a shift in the body’s acid/base balance.