Lafayette Veterinary Care Center- Diabetes Testing Clinic

The Lafayette Veterinary Care Center will be hosting a free diabetic testing/screening for pets on Saturday, March 21st.

Didn't know pets could be diabetic? Here is what you need to know.

• WHO CAN GET IT?
  • Dogs and cats can develop diabetes just like people do
  • Middle aged to older animals
  • Cats are often overweight (type II- obesity induced)
  • Poodles, Miniature Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Beagles most at-risk breeds
• WHAT ARE THE SIGNS?
  • drinking a lot of water
  • urinating frequently and/or large amounts
  • for first few weeks or months, animal doesn’t appear “sick”—signs progress over time; as gets worse, weight loss, lethargic, vomiting, enlarged belly (pot belly)
  • Urinary tract infections very common

• WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
  • Serious and life threatening if left untreated: diabetic coma, severe dehydration, death
  • Complications can be irreversible:
    •  white or cloudy eyes can be cataracts from high blood sugar leading to blindness, glaucoma;
    • cats can have difficulty walking
  • Diabetics more likely to develop bacterial or fungal infections
  • Diabetes CAN BE MANAGED with early detection and treatment, this the best chance your pet has to live a happy and normal life!
    • Dogs almost always permanent and need lifelong treatment
    • Cats can be temporary/cured if treated with medications and weight reduction early enough

• HOW CAN I FIND OUT IF MY ANIMAL MIGHT BE DIABETIC?
  • Always consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned
  • March 21^st from 10 am- 2 pm at Lafayette Veterinary Care Center- offering free diabetic testing through a blood sugar test or a urine test for cats and dogs!