Understanding Diabetes in Pets: A Growing Concern for Dogs and Cats

As a pet owner, it can be alarming when your dog or cat starts drinking excessively and urinating more than usual. These symptoms could indicate a serious health issue, such as diabetes. Unfortunately, diabetes is becoming increasingly common, not just in people but also in our beloved cats and dogs.

The Connection Between Probiotics and Diabetes Management

Recent studies have shown promising results regarding the management of diabetes in pets. Specifically, certain probiotics, when used in high enough concentrations, can help decrease fasting blood glucose levels. This can play a crucial role in managing diabetes, as well as other related issues in pets.

Introducing Dr. Jones’ Ultimate PROBIOTIC Formula for Dogs and Cats

If your pet has been diagnosed with diabetes, allergies, or intestinal issues, I highly recommend trying my NEW multistrain probiotic formula. Dr. Jones’ Ultimate PROBIOTIC Formula for Dogs and Cats is designed to support your pet’s digestive health and help manage conditions like diabetes effectively.

By incorporating this probiotic formula into your pet’s routine, you can take proactive steps to support their health and well-being.

The Flash Glucose Monitoring System and Gut Bacteria in Regulating Blood Sugar in Pets

As a veterinarian, I know that diabetes is a common but complex condition in both dogs and cats. Managing diabetes can be challenging, requiring a team effort between veterinarians and pet owners to provide proper care in both the clinic and at home.

Traditional Management of Diabetes in Pets

The cornerstone of diabetes treatment in both dogs and cats is insulin, paired with dietary modifications. In many cases, I begin treatment by performing blood glucose curves at the hospital to determine the appropriate insulin dose. These curves are typically repeated under the following circumstances:

• After the first dose of a new type of insulin
• 7 to 14 days after any insulin dose adjustments
• Every three months in a well-controlled diabetic patient
• Anytime clinical signs reappear in a controlled patient
• When hypoglycemia is suspected

However, these repeated visits can create a significant burden for both the pet and the owner. Frequent vet visits, the costs associated with each, and the stress of hospitalizing your pet for 10-12 hours can be overwhelming. This is especially true for cats, who often develop stress-induced hyperglycemia in the clinic setting.

At-Home Blood Glucose Monitoring: A Convenient Alternative

Portable blood glucose meters have become a useful tool in managing diabetes at home, but they come with their own set of challenges. Multiple attempts to get a blood sample, insufficient blood volume, the need for assistance in restraining the pet, and the pet’s resistance to the process are all common obstacles.

The Flash Glucose Monitoring System (FGMS)

A newer, more convenient option for at-home monitoring is the flash glucose monitoring system (FGMS). Unlike traditional portable meters, FGMS devices use a sensor placed on the skin to measure interstitial glucose levels, which provides a continuous reading without the need for multiple blood samples. The most popular device in use today is the Freestyle Libre, which provides glucose readings every minute, directly to a monitor or smartphone.

These systems do not require capillary blood samples for calibration, making them a less invasive and more stress-free alternative for both the pet and the owner. This new technology shows great promise for improving the management of diabetic pets, helping to maintain better control of their blood sugar levels.

The Role of Probiotics in Diabetes Management

In addition to glucose monitoring, another interesting area of research is the use of probiotics in managing diabetes. Studies have shown that probiotic supplementation can reduce fasting plasma glucose (FPG), improve lipid profiles, and lower blood pressure in patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Probiotics also help control glycemic levels and inflammation in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) patients.

Two of the most researched probiotic strains for managing diabetes are Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium, though many other strains are currently being studied. For optimal benefits, it’s recommended to give a minimum of 1 billion CFU (colony-forming units) per 10 pounds of body weight daily. It’s also essential to provide a prebiotic, which supports the growth of these beneficial bacteria in the gut.

How Probiotics Can Benefit Your Diabetic Pet

For pet owners managing a diabetic pet at home, adding probiotics to your pet’s daily routine can be a simple yet effective way to improve their overall health. Probiotics help balance the gut microbiome, improve digestion, and may assist in better glycemic control, supporting the overall well-being of your furry friend.

Heal Your Pet at Home with Probiotics and Glucose Monitoring

In my practice, I’ve seen firsthand how using tools like the flash glucose monitoring system and probiotics can significantly improve the management of diabetes in pets. By making these technologies and supplements a part of your pet’s daily routine, you can provide more accurate, at-home care for your diabetic pet.

P.S. Should You Consider the Flash Glucose Test for Your Diabetic Pet?

If your pet is on insulin for diabetes, I highly recommend the flash glucose test. It’s a much more accurate and less stressful way to monitor blood glucose levels compared to traditional methods. I’ve often found that stress in the clinic leads to artificially high glucose readings, especially with cats. With the FGMS, you can monitor your pet’s glucose at home, providing you with real-time data and much better control of their diabetes.

P.P.S. About Our New Probiotic Formula for Pets

I’m excited to introduce our Advanced Probiotic Blend designed specifically for pets. This new formula includes high-potency probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, and is specially formulated for animals in high doses — 5 billion CFU per capsule!

These probiotics work together to maintain a balanced gut microbiome, improve digestion, and support overall gastrointestinal health, helping your pet thrive.

Dr. Jones’ New MULTISTRAIN PROBIOTIC Supplement for Pets is available now, and it’s just what your diabetic or digestive-compromised pet needs!

By using both advanced glucose monitoring systems and high-quality probiotics, you can give your pet the best chance at living a long, healthy life with diabetes.