November is Diabetes Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness about a condition that affects millions of people and countless animals. Diabetes isn’t just a human disease; our dogs and horses can also develop diabetes or diabetes-like metabolic disorders that require long-term care, lifestyle adjustments, and consistent monitoring.
The purpose of this month is simple:
With proper education and early intervention, animals with diabetes or insulin-related disorders can live long, active, and fulfilling lives.
Diabetes in Dogs: A Closer Look
Diabetes can affect dogs of any breed, age, or gender, although it is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to senior pets. Early recognition and consistent management greatly improve a dog’s prognosis. Understanding the types of diabetes, common symptoms, and treatment options empowers owners to help their dogs stay healthy and comfortable.
Types of Diabetes in Dogs
• Type 1 Diabetes (Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus – IDDM)
This is the most common form in dogs. The pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, which is needed to move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells for energy. Because insulin-producing cells are damaged or destroyed, dogs with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin injections—usually once or twice daily. Diet structure and routine are also essential for maintaining stable blood sugar.
• Type 2–Like Diabetes
True Type 2 diabetes is rare in dogs, but some dogs develop a similar condition caused by obesity, inflammation, or hormonal imbalances that reduce insulin sensitivity. Even in these cases, dogs often progress to needing insulin injections. Weight management and treatment of underlying conditions can greatly improve outcomes.
Higher-Risk Dogs Include:
Early Warning Signs in Dogs
Diabetes often develops gradually. Watch for:
If you notice these signs, a veterinary exam and bloodwork are the next essential step.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis may include:
Most testing can be completed during a routine vet visit.
Treatment and Management
A diabetic dog can live a full, healthy life with:
Once stabilized, many diabetic dogs return to their normal personalities and routines.
Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders in Horses
True diabetes is rare in horses, but insulin dysregulation—a condition closely related to diabetes—is extremely common. When the body struggles to regulate blood sugar, insulin levels become persistently high, increasing the risk of serious complications such as laminitis.
Two primary endocrine conditions cause most cases of insulin dysregulation:
Both disorders affect how the body processes insulin and significantly increase laminitis risk.
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)
EMS is especially common in “easy keeper” breeds such as ponies, Morgans, Arabians, Mustangs, and Paso Finos, though any horse can develop it.
Key features include:
Most EMS horses improve significantly with controlled diets, strategic weight management, and consistent exercise.
PPID (Cushing’s Disease)
PPID is common in older horses. An overactive pituitary gland produces excess hormones that disturb normal insulin function.
Common signs include:
Many horses with PPID also have EMS, making combined management essential for preventing laminitis.
Why Insulin Issues Matter: The Laminitis Connection
Laminitis is one of the most painful and dangerous hoof conditions. High insulin levels—whether due to EMS, PPID, or dietary triggers—can damage the delicate structures within the hoof, leading to inflammation, rotation, or sinking of the coffin bone.
Early detection of metabolic problems is key to preventing severe episodes.
Signs of Insulin Dysregulation in Horses
Watch for:
These signs often develop gradually and may be mistaken for aging or normal weight gain.
Diagnosing Metabolic Disorders in Horses
Veterinarians may recommend:
Because early metabolic changes often appear before obvious symptoms, screening is extremely valuable.
Managing Horses with EMS or PPID
Why Early Detection Matters
Early diagnosis can prevent:
Monitoring your animal’s weight, appetite, water intake, and behavior provides important early clues to their health.
What Pet & Horse Owners Can Do This Month
✔ Schedule a wellness exam
✔ Review your animal’s diet
✔ Watch for early signs
✔ Share awareness with other owners
✔ Ask your veterinarian about screening—especially for overweight or senior animals
A Final Message for Diabetes Awareness Month
Diabetes and metabolic disorders may feel overwhelming at first, but with early recognition and proper management, most animals can thrive. Awareness is the first step—this month is a great opportunity to start meaningful conversations with your veterinarian, barn manager, or fellow pet owners.
Kamie Roth
Author