Diabetes
Acids (keytones) are formed in the blood of diabetics because of inability to metabolize sugar. High levels will lead to a condition called ketoacidosis. It is characterized by acetone on the breath (sweet odor), labored rapid breathing and eventually a diabetic coma.
In the early stages, a dog will try to compensate for the inability to metabolize sugar by eating more food. Later, as the dog suffers the effects of malnourishment, there is a drop in appetite.
The signs of diabetes in dogs are frequent urination, drinking a lot of water, large appetite, unexplained loss of weight.
In more advanced cases there is loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness, sweet smelling breath, dehydration, labored breathing, lethargy and coma.
Treating a dog with diabetes involves insulin shots twice a day as well as a fixed meal schedule. Typically the dog must be fed at set times, twice a day, with a set amount of food. Once the food is consumed, the injection is given.
In the event of an insulin overdose, the dog will appear confused, disoriented, drowsy, may shiver and/or stagger, and may also collapse.
Rubbing Karo syrup on the gums will help bring the sugar level back to normal, however it is recommended that you seek veterinary help.
