Blood sugar level
The blood glucose level is an important indicator of your dog's health. It shows how much glucose, i.e. sugar, is present in your dog's blood. Glucose is the most important source of energy for your dog's cells and is obtained from food. If the blood glucose level is too high or too low, this can lead to serious problems. In this blog post you will learn how to measure, regulate and optimize your dog's blood glucose levels.
How do you measure blood glucose levels in dogs?
To measure your dog's blood glucose level, you need a special device called a glucometer. This device measures the amount of glucose in the blood using a small drop of blood taken from your dog's ear or paw. It is best to take the measurement before feeding or at least two hours after the last meal to get an accurate result. The normal blood glucose level in dogs is between 80 and 120 mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter). If the value is above or below this, you should consult a vet.
What are the causes of high or low blood sugar levels in dogs?
A high blood sugar level in dogs is called hyperglycemia and can have various causes. The most common is diabetes mellitus, a metabolic disorder in which the body does not produce enough insulin or does not respond to it properly. Insulin is a hormone that ensures that glucose is transported from the blood into the cells. If this does not work, the glucose remains in the blood and increases the blood sugar level. Other possible causes of hyperglycemia are stress, infections, medication or hormonal disorders.
A low blood sugar level in dogs is called hypoglycemia and can also have various causes. The most common is too high a dose of insulin in diabetic dogs, which leads to a drop in blood glucose levels. Other possible causes are insufficient food intake, vomiting, diarrhea, liver disease or tumors.
How can you regulate and optimize blood sugar levels in dogs?
To regulate and optimize your dog's blood sugar levels, you should take a few measures. The most important are:
- Feed your dog a balanced and high-quality diet that is tailored to his needs. Avoid sugary or high-fat foods and give him regular meals in appropriate portions.
- Keep your dog physically active and make sure he gets enough exercise. This will help him burn calories, build muscle and stimulate his metabolism.
- Regularly check your dog's blood sugar level with a glucometer and record the values in a diary. This will help you to identify trends and make adjustments.
- Follow your vet's instructions regarding insulin therapy if your dog has diabetes. Give him the right dose at the right time and watch out for possible side effects.
- Be prepared for emergencies and always have something sweet on hand, such as honey or dextrose, to help your dog quickly in case of hypoglycemia.
Blood sugar levels are an important aspect of your dog's health. If you take good care of him and respond to his needs, you can give him a long and happy life.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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