Hypoglycemia (Low Glucose) in Dogs
Introduction
Hypoglycemia in Dogs Guide: Find veterinary reviewed information that explains the affects of Hypoglycemia in dogs. Get started and see what choices you and your vet can make to successfully manage Hypoglycemia in Dogs.
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Definition of Hypoglycemia in Dogs
Hypoglycemia is defined as an abnormally low level or concentration of the simple sugar, glucose, in an animal’s bloodstream. Glucose is the end product of carbohydrate digestion. Carbohydrates in food are an important and immediate source of energy for most animals. The main sources of dietary carbohydrates are the starches and sugars that come from plants. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the cells and tissues of dogs. When there is more glucose in circulation (from dietary intake) than is needed for the dog’s energy demands, it is stored in liver and muscle cells in the form of glycogen, for future use. If the liver and muscle cells become saturated, glucose is converted into fat and stored as adipose tissue. Circulating blood sugar levels depend upon the amount of glucose that is: 1) taken in through a dog’s diet, 2) produced by the liver from glycogen stores, and 3) utilized by the dog’s body. Abnormalities in any of those areas can contribute to hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia can be caused by a number of things. The basic mechanisms of hypoglycemia are either: 1) an abnormally large rate of removal of glucose from the bloodstream, 2) an abnormally low level of glucose in the blood from dietary intake, or 3) decreased production of glucose from glycogen stores by the liver. Most cases of hypoglycemia are caused by excessive use of glucose by normal body cells or by rapidly-dividing cancer cells.Hypoglycemia often
Hypoglycemic dogs typically exhibit symptoms of weakness, tiredness, exercise intolerance and lack of coordination. From reports made by people with this condition, it is safe to say that hypoglycemia at a minimum causes dogs to feel poorly and to be distressed and uncomfortable. Severe cases can cause the dog to suffer much more physical pain and no doubt emotional distress, as well. Seizures are one of the most common symptoms of hypoglycemia.Hypoglycemic dogs can display
Hypoglycemia is easy to diagnose from the results of routine blood work, which will identify low levels of glucose in the dog’s bloodstream. The difficult part of the diagnosis is determining why the dog is hypoglycemic. Dogs presenting with generalized signs of unexplained weakness, lethargy and seizures will be given a thorough physical examination. A history of the dog’s condition will be taken from the dog’s owner. Most veterinarians will recommend taking a urine sample
The main goals of treating hypoglycemia are to identify and eliminate the underlying cause of the dog’s low blood sugar. If the dog is having seizures at home, the veterinarian may recommend that the owner rub Karo syrup, corn syrup, sugar, fruit juices or honey on its gums, followed by a small meal once the dog is stable and no longer seizing. Dogs with observable signs of hypoglycemia usually will be treated in the