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Diabetes mellitus is a common disease in dogs and cats occurring in about 1:30 to 1:40 <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt59f3dfce38021e88" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/diabetes-in-pets">pets</a>. The most common form of <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt25a5d9008621bc58" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/canine-diabetes">diabetes in dogs</a> resembles type 1 diabetes in humans, sometimes referred to as insulin dependent. Studies suggest that genetics, an immune-mediated component, and environmental factors are involved in the development of diabetes in dogs. A variant of gestational diabetes also occurs in dogs. 
 
The most common form of <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt69ef131913f47d77" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/feline-diabetes">diabetes in cats</a> resembles type 2 diabetes in humans, which is non-insulin dependent. A major risk factor in cats is obesity. Obese cats have altered expression of several insulin signaling genes and glucose transporters and are leptin resistant. Cats also form amyloid deposits within the islets of the pancreas and develop glucotoxicity when exposed to prolonged hyperglycemia.

Diabetes is similar across species as the end result of the disease. Too little insulin and too much glucose is common to all patients. What is different is the approach to controlling blood sugar levels which is much more demanding/aggressive in man than in animals.

One of the common misconceptions is that pets with diabetes will exhibit all the complications of diabetes known to occur in man: Loss of vision from diabetic retinopathy, kidney failure from diabetic nephropathy, stroke and heart attack from large vessel disease, and the risk of amputation from small vessel disease, weakness and pain from diabetic neuropathy. 
None of these occur in pets, not because diabetes behaves differently, but because these complications occur over decades in man. While vision loss or impairment can occur in dogs as a result of diabetes induced cataracts, which are very rare in cats, they can be successfully treated with surgery. 
 
In order to prevent these complications in man, very tight control of blood glucose is required resulting in patients having to take insulin and oral diabetes medications multiple times a day along with multiple daily measurements of their blood glucose. 
However, in pets, our goals are much easier to attain. Our goals are to lower the blood glucose sufficiently to prevent or lessen the common clinical signs of diabetes, which are excessive drinking and urination, slow or delay the progression of cataracts, preserve ideal body weight as both obesity and being too thin can complicate management, and prevent hypoglycemic reactions.

Generally, advances can occur more quickly in the veterinary space given the large number of patients affected and the shorter life spans of dogs and cats. This makes them ideal candidates to evaluate therapies as they move from small animal models, including rats and mice, to large animal models, including dogs, cats and primates, into man. The cost associated with this translational approach are also much less in the veterinary space.

Diabetes across species shares the commonality of not enough insulin and too much glucose. Because of the differing lifespan and genetic makeup of each species, humans, cats, and dogs, each have differing health complications and treatments for diabetes. Advances in the veterinary space regarding diabetes research may be beneficial to those in the human medicine field.

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Diabetes in Humans and Animals

Human drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can be legally prescribed for animals by a veterinarian. There are medical needs for animals that cannot be met with FDA approved animal drugs, so oftentimes veterinarians must prescribe drugs approved for human use. Under certain circumstances, the FDA allows veterinarians to utilize human drugs in an extra-label manner to provide prompt relief to animals where there is not an existing animal approved drug suitable for treatment.

The term extra-label (also known as off-label) refers to the use of FDA approved drugs in a manner that is not described in the labeling of the drug, including use in a different species. Only 15% of animal diseases have an FDA approved animal drug. A veterinarian can use drugs in an extra-label manner to address un-met animal medical needs. This extra-label use is permitted under the Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act. Veterinarians make educated decisions to utilize FDA approved human drugs in pets based on their medical experience and understanding of published medical literature.

The Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act (AMDUCA), passed by Congress in 1994, provides veterinarians the legal basis to utilize or prescribe human and animal drugs in an extra-label manner. The conditions required for the veterinarian to prescribe a drug extra-label include a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship and a medical need in a companion animal that cannot be met by an existing FDA approved animal drug. 
A drug may only be compounded from approved human or animal drugs and safe ingredients and only when no suitable approved dosage form is available. Extra-label drug use in food-producing animals requires careful provisions to prevent drug residues in food products. There are drugs that are prohibited from extra-label usage. <a href="https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/safety-health/frequently-asked-questions-about-animal-drugs" target="_blank">You can visit the FDA website on extra-label drug use in animals and AMDUCA for more information.</a>

This can only be determined by your veterinarian. Many veterinarians recommend extra-label use of FDA approved human drugs in pets for treatment of disease conditions that are not covered by existing FDA approved animal drugs. This is especially helpful for pets with rare conditions, when it is unlikely there is an FDA approved animal drug. There is a list of drugs that can be used on the FDA website (Animal Drugs @ FDA), and your veterinarian will know what is best for your dog. Never give human drugs to your pet without consulting your veterinarian first.

If your pet has a disease for which no FDA approved animal drug is available, there may be an FDA approved human or animal drug that can be used in an extra-label manner to effectively treat the disease. The passing of AMDUCA was a huge advancement in veterinary medicine and pet care as it supplies veterinarians the legal basis to utilize FDA approved human and animal drugs in an extra-label manner. The process to achieve approval for an animal drug is extensive, like the process for approval of a human drug, but <a data-sys-entry-uid="bltfb49eac04fa82f70" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/why-are-there-so-few-drug-approved-specifically-for-veterinary-use" target="_blank">there are far fewer animal drugs approved</a> and many animal diseases cannot be treated with the animal drugs that are available.

Extra-label use of FDA approved drugs provides veterinarians with the tools needed to treat diseases that cannot be met by FDA approved animal drugs. Veterinarians use their keen medical knowledge and understanding of published medical literature to make proper decisions regarding extra-label use of drugs in pets. Human and animal drugs are manufactured to the same FDA standards and safety and effectiveness requirements are similar. Your veterinarian will determine the best therapy available to treat your pet.

various colorful pills in glass cup on white table

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Is it Safe to Use Human Drugs on Animals?

hand on chin of black and white speckled dog in autumn trees

The Veterinary Centers for America (VCA) warns that putting essential oils directly on your dog’s skin can be toxic. These oils are highly concentrated and rapidly absorbed by the skin, which can be very dangerous, especially if they aren’t high quality. If products haven’t been purified by manufacturers, they could contain toxins or irritants that could poison your dog if ingested. You should not put concentrated essential oils in your dog’s mouth. If in contact with skin, they can usually be washed off with soap, but ingestion will require a trip to the veterinarian. Always be aware of surfaces you use the oils on and if your pet has access to them, as they often lick their paws to groom. The VCA specifically warns against contact or ingestion of oils from: <ul><li>Cinnamon </li><li>Citrus </li><li>Pennyroyal </li><li>Peppermint </li><li>Pine </li></ul><ul><li>Sweet birch </li><li>Tea tree </li><li>Wintergreen </li><li>Ylang ylang </li></ul>

The ASPCA regards diffusers as generally safe for pets, but you should limit the time you use them in your home and your dog’s exposure. You may want to “pet-proof” your home by moving essential oils to areas where your pets cannot reach them, to avoid ingestion or spills.

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hand pouring essential oil drops into diffuser

The purity and quality of essential oils vary. Not all oils are manufactured to the same quality, and you should always check the ingredient list before buying. Do your research online before heading to the store. Some companies make essential oil-infused products that are safe and meant to be used on pets, so you may want to look for those brands.

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Essential oils are concentrated. They are rarely meant to be used as is. Most essential oils are made to be diluted in carrier oils or liquids for skin application, cooking, or diffusing. You can add a few drops of essential oil to homemade cleaning solutions to customize the scent. When using around dogs or other pets, you should only use what you need. If a recipe calls for 20 drops in a floor cleaning solution, you may only want to use 3-5 drops instead. Use your judgement and add what feels right for a subtle infusion of scent. Remember that your dog’s nose is stronger than yours, so the scent will be even more potent to them.

Pine should not be ingested by dogs, so if you’re looking for the same woodsy, forest smell you could try arborvitae in your cleaning products or diffusers. Arborvitae is extracted from the wood of the arborvitae tree and has been shown to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.

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Eucalyptus is a pet-friendly oil used in many cleaners and shower products to improve breathing. Not only does it open airways, eucalyptus has also been shown to have antifungal and antibacterial properties. In one study with twenty-two bacteria strains and twelve fungi species, eucalyptus was resistant against all bacteria and eleven of the fungi.

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Lemongrass provides a similar scent to lemon without the toxicity. Lemongrass has also been shown to be a natural insect repellent. It has been used in aromatherapy as both an air freshener and a reliever of anxiety. Some use it to fight inflammation in acne, athlete’s foot, and headaches. The fresh, citrusy scent makes lemongrass a safe alternative to lemon or other citrus oils.

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Lavendar has been used in humans to reduce anxiety and depression, and to evoke a calming atmosphere. Lavendar is generally safe for dogs and may even help them cope with anxiety if diffused safely. It provides many of the same benefits of ylang ylang.

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It is generally safe to diffuse essential oils in your household in moderation. You should always keep your oils out of reach of your pets to avoid them ingesting large amounts at a time. In the event your dog has ingested too much oil causing poisoning, you will want to be aware of the symptoms. Symptoms of essential oil poisoning, according to the VCA, include breath smelling like the fragrance, difficulty breathing or walking, lethargy, muscle tremors, pawing at the mouth and face, redness around the mouth, and vomiting. You will want to contact your veterinarian right away for emergency care if you notice these symptoms. Never apply undiluted essential oils to your pet’s skin. If you’re considering a product that contains essential oils, it is best to consult your veterinarian before you use it on your pet.

ten essential oils in brown bottles on table smoky brown background

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Poisonous for Pets? Dangerous Essential Oils and What to Use Instead

The most common disorder of the endocrine pancreas in dogs and cats is diabetes. This disease is more commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older pets. <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt25a5d9008621bc58" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/canine-diabetes">Dogs</a> diagnosed with diabetes are usually 7 to 12 years old, while <a data-sys-entry-uid="blt69ef131913f47d77" data-sys-entry-locale="en-us" data-sys-content-type-uid="blog_entry" sys-style-type="link" class="embedded-entry" type="entry" href="/learn/article/feline-diabetes">cats</a> are 10 to 13 years old. 

Diabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are too high. Glucose is a sugar that gives cells energy to function properly. The pancreas produces insulin, which is a hormone that allows cells to absorb glucose from the blood. When glucose stays in the blood, the body has difficulty functioning properly and a pet can be at high risk for many health issues. These include heart disease, stroke, cataracts, urinary tract infection, kidney failure, and ketoacidosis.

Multiple factors play a role in diabetes, so there is no one root cause. Influencing factors include genetics, environment, current diseases of the pancreas, and obesity. Common symptoms of diabetes are excessive drinking, hunger, and urinating. More subtle signs may include weakness or reduction of energy levels, and reoccurring infections. These reoccurring infections may be signs that your dog or cat’s body is not properly healing itself due to its inability to break down glucose. If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, talk with your veterinarian soon.

Because the cause of diabetes is multifactorial, and linked to genetics, it is difficult to prevent. <a href="https://www.anitrial.com/view-studies" target="_blank">Clinical trials</a> are ongoing to learn more about metabolism and immune function in diabetic dogs and cats. Spaying female pets is one way to reduce the risk of transient diabetes that can occur after heat cycles. This is because the hormone progesterone that is produced during pregnancy or heat cycle can affect insulin operation. Obesity also impacts blood sugar levels, so helping your pet maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine can reduce their risk of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is an insulin deficiency caused by mediated β-cell destruction. The body is unable to produce substantial insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, and pancreatic cells that create insulin are destroyed. Dogs are more likely to develop type 1 diabetes. 

Type 2 diabetes is an insulin resistance with β-cell dysfunction. The body may produce substantial insulin levels, but hormones produced by excess fat cells impede the body’s ability to respond to these levels. Obesity increases risk for type 2 diabetes. This type is more common in cats.

Veterinarians may order blood and urine tests to diagnosis a dog or cat with diabetes. Diabetes is usually permanent, but there are solutions to reduce its impact. Diabetes is managed with a combination of insulin therapy, healthy diet, and exercise. Insulin therapy is generally administered twice daily for the pet’s lifetime. Veterinarians may measure blood glucose levels every couple of weeks for a couple months after diagnosis to determine the best dose of insulin. A pet’s diet, exercise, and stress levels impact the dose of insulin they need, so it is important for owners talk with their veterinarians about healthy choices for their pet.

If you think your dog or cat might have diabetes, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Vet Advice

3 Ways Veterinary Technicians Improve Your Pet’s Care

Is it Safe to Use Human Drugs on Animals?

Diabetes in Humans and Animals