Insulin for Dogs

Dosage, Types and Essential Care

Insulin is an essential hormone for metabolism in both humans and animals. In dogs, insulin plays a fundamental role in controlling blood glucose levels, and is especially relevant for those suffering from diabetes.

This hormone regulates how the body uses glucose, and when there is a deficiency in insulin production, the canine body can develop diabetes mellitus.

The administration of insulin for dogs is therefore an indispensable practice in the treatment of this disease, providing a healthier and more controlled life for the animal.

What Insulin Is and How It Works in the Canine Organism

Insulin is produced by the pancreas, an organ that plays an essential role in digesting and regulating blood sugar. In dogs with diabetes, the pancreas can't produce enough insulin or, in some cases, the body can't use insulin effectively. Without this hormone, blood glucose levels rise dangerously, leading to symptoms such as excessive thirst, increased urination and weight loss.

The administration of exogenous insulin - i.e. insulin injections - helps maintain glucose levels within a healthy range. This is done through daily injections, adjusted according to the animal's needs, which vary according to its weight, diet, and level of physical activity.

Types of Insulin for Dogs

As with humans, there are different types of insulin available for treating dogs with diabetes. Each type has specific characteristics that influence how quickly they start to act and how long their effects remain in the body.

1. Rapid-acting insulinThis type of insulin starts to act quickly after injection, controlling glucose levels immediately after a meal. However, its effect does not last long. It is most commonly used in emergency situations, such as diabetic ketoacidosis.
2. Intermediate-acting insulinThis is the most common form of insulin prescribed for dogs. It begins to act a few hours after application and has a moderate duration of effect, controlling glucose levels for most of the day. A common example is NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn) insulin, which is widely used to treat dogs.
3. Long-Acting InsulinThis type of insulin has a slower onset of action, but its effects last much longer. It is used for dogs who need more stable control throughout the day. An example is insulin glargine, which can maintain stable glucose levels for 24 hours.

Insulin for Dogs

Insulin Dosage for Dogs

The dosage of insulin for a diabetic dog is not fixed and varies according to the dog's weight, the stage of the disease and other factors such as diet and exercise. The vet will determine the exact amount the dog needs. However, there are general guidelines for starting treatment, with adjustments being made over time.

Dogs usually start with a dose of insulin based on their body weight. For example, a dog might start with a dose of 0.5 units of insulin per kilogram of weight, administered twice a day. After application, glucose levels are monitored regularly to check the body's response to insulin and, if necessary, the dosage is adjusted.

The aim is to find the correct dosage that keeps glucose at an optimal level without causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels). The ideal dosage can take a few weeks to be adjusted properly, and it is essential that owners of diabetic dogs follow the vet's advice rigorously during this process.

How to apply insulin to a dog

Applying insulin to a dog may seem like a difficult task at first, but with practice and guidance from the vet, it becomes a simple routine. The application is done with a syringe and usually in the subcutaneous tissue, which is the layer of fat between the skin and the muscles. Common application points include the area between the scapulae and the animal's flank.

Here are some general steps for applying insulin to your dog:

1. Prepare the syringeUse a new needle and syringe for each application. Insulin should be removed from the bottle and adjusted to the recommended dosage.
2. Locate the application siteMost vets recommend injecting insulin into areas with a good amount of fat. Avoid areas with prominent muscles.
3. Lift the skinWith one hand, lift the dog's skin to create a "tent" where the syringe will be inserted.
4. Administer insulinInsert the needle at an angle of approximately 45 degrees and slowly inject the insulin.
5. Monitor the animal's responseAfter application, observe your dog's behavior and check its glucose levels as instructed by your veterinarian.

Insulin for Dogs

Insulin Side Effects

Although insulin is crucial for treating dogs with diabetes, it is important to be aware of possible side effects. The most serious is hypoglycemia, which occurs when the dog's blood glucose level becomes too low.

This can happen if the insulin dosage is too high, if the dog doesn't eat enough or if there is an error in the administration of the insulin.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia include

• Weakness
• Disorientation
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Eat

If your dog shows signs of hypoglycemia, it's important to act quickly. Offering a small amount of sugar, such as honey, can help to quickly raise glucose levels. In more serious cases, the animal should be taken to the vet immediately.

The Importance of Proper Nutrition

A diabetic dog's diet must be carefully controlled to ensure that glucose levels remain stable.

Diets rich in fiber and low in carbohydrates are recommended, as they help prevent glucose spikes after meals.

Consistency is also key. Feeding the dog at the same times every day and administering insulin immediately after a meal helps to synchronize the treatment with the natural variations in blood glucose.

Veterinarians can recommend specially formulated food for diabetic dogs, which provides the necessary nutrition while helping to control blood sugar.

Cost of Insulin Treatment

Insulin treatment for dogs can be expensive, but it is essential for maintaining your pet's health and quality of life. The cost of insulin can vary greatly depending on the brand, the dose required and the frequency of applications. In addition to the cost of the medication itself, owners of diabetic dogs must take into account the cost of syringes, regular veterinary examinations and special diets.

On average, a vial of insulin for dogs can cost between R$ 80 and R$ 150, depending on the brand and type of insulin. A vial can last a few weeks or even months, depending on the dosage prescribed.

Continuous Monitoring and Veterinary Examinations

Continuous monitoring is a fundamental part of treating diabetes in dogs. In addition to administering insulin, it is important for owners to regularly monitor their dog's blood glucose levels. This can be done at home with a special glucose meter for pets.

In addition, regular veterinary examinations are essential to adjust the insulin dosage and ensure that the dog is responding well to treatment. Blood and urine tests can provide valuable information about how the dog's body is metabolizing insulin.

Conclusion

Insulin is the central pillar in the treatment of canine diabetes, and its correct administration is vital to ensure that diabetic dogs can live healthy and active lives. With the support of a vet and a well-established routine of feeding and insulin application, many diabetic dogs are able to lead normal lives.

The owner's involvement in the treatment process is crucial, as in addition to applying the insulin, they must closely monitor the dog's behavior and maintain constant communication with the vet. By understanding the different types of insulin, how to apply it correctly and the care required, owners can ensure that their pets receive the best possible care, prolonging their lives with quality.

https://vettopbr.com/cachorros/