Diagnosis of Canine Diabetes

Canine diabetes occurs when a dog’s pancreas is unable to produce adequate insulin to effectively process the food that is eaten.  When food isn't processed properly, it cannot pass into the cells.  Therefore, the body cannot make use of it.  This causes an excess of sugar to be passed into the bloodstream.

Numerous steps can be taken by a veterinarian when conducting tests to diagnose canine diabetes.  Diabetes can cause damage to a dog’s internal organs; i.e. heart and kidneys, as well as the eyes.  Initially, an extensive physical examination will be conducted.  This is done in order to make a determination regarding the extent of damage already incurred. 

A urinalysis is generally conducted as part of the examination.  This procedure gives an evaluation of the amount of sugar in the urine.  If the urinalysis confirms elevated levels of glucose, blood work will be the next step in the diagnostic process.  Results of the blood work will give an indication of the glucose level in the blood.  

After the initial tests on blood and urine, additional testing may be conducted.  This will provide the veterinarian with more data regarding the elevation in sugar levels.  Test results can also give an assessment of kidney function.