Humans know all too well about metabolism. It’s the process in which we convert our breakfast, lunch, dinner, or all-day snacking into energy. But what about our furry friends? Do dogs have “fast” or “slow” metabolisms that affect how they process their kibble or highly sought-after treats?
The answer is yes, and it’s the reason why it’s important for all pup’s to maintain a well-balanced diet that meets all their nutritional needs. Otherwise, metabolic diseases can occur.
ou’ve likely heard about metabolism in human beings. It refers to the chemical reactions that occur within the body when food turns into energy, and it can affect a person’s ability to gain or lose weight. Dogs also have a metabolic system, and it functions similarly as in humans. When a pup consumes protein, (Trusted Source) the body breaks it down into amino acids that play a role in many metabolic reactions. Like humans, dogs can develop a variety of metabolic diseases.
Some metabolic diseases in dogs are triggered by hormones, such as cortisol and insulin. Sometimes, a metabolic disease in dogs will affect one organ, such as the thyroid. These metabolic disorders can be systemic and have body-wide effects, including weight gain and hair loss.
Other disorders, particularly inherited errors of metabolism (Trusted Source) (IEM), occur when an enzyme deficiency or dysfunction disrupts metabolic function. In IEMs, the issue with the enzyme blocks the dog’s metabolic pathways and triggers other symptoms, including failure to thrive, vomiting, and lethargy.
If you suspect your pooch may have a metabolic disease, it’s important to make a vet appointment right away. Getting an accurate diagnosis from a veterinarian is an important first step toward effective management. Here are the most common types of metabolic diseases that can occur in dogs:
👉 In some cases, it might be possible to prevent certain metabolic diseases with the right diet. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids aids, for example, aids in healthy metabolism.
A dog can inherit a metabolic disease, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes, other underlying conditions can contribute. For example, obese dogs can be more prone to diabetes. Older dogs are also often more at-risk of developing Cushing’s disease.
Scientists are still investigating the causes of some metabolic diseases in dogs, such as Addison’s. However, the breed of an animal may play a role. For example, Great Danes and standard Poodles are among the breeds more susceptible to developing Addison’s disease.
Each metabolic disease has its own set of clinical signs and symptoms, and a veterinarian is the best person to evaluate your dog. However, understanding the most common symptoms can help you seek out a diagnosis. Early detection and treatment may lead to better health outcomes.
Here are the signs of metabolic diseases in dogs:
👉 If your dog shows any of the above signs of a metabolic disorder, visit your veterinarian right away. A vet can evaluate the dog through blood tests and urine samples to help determine any next steps.
Untreated metabolic diseases can damage tissues and put your pet at risk for other health problems. Sometimes, conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of the development of cardiovascular diseases. Others, like Cushing’s disease, can weaken the muscles and affect mobility.
The good news is that modern veterinary medicine has come a long way, and dogs with a metabolic syndrome can lead normal lives with proper treatment. Often, daily medication will be prescribed for the rest of a dog’s life. For example, many dogs with diabetes develop insulin resistance and need regular insulin injections to regulate blood glucose levels. Surgery may be required to remove tumors.
It may also be important to learn how to maintain your pet’s body weight through proper nutrition and increased physical activity. A vet can provide more information on the best treatment for your pet.
Increased thirst, increased appetite, and increased urination are three common signs of metabolic disease in dogs.
Diabetes is one example of a metabolic disease in animals, but several others exist. A veterinarian can run diagnostic tests to determine if your dog has a metabolic disease.
It depends on the metabolic disease, but veterinarians will also prescribe drugs. Your dog will need to take these drugs for the rest of their lives.
Diabetes in dogs occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin. There are several risk factors, including visceral obesity (Trusted Source) (excess weight around the midsection) and age. It’s important to know that animals of any size may develop diabetes, including small dogs. Treatment is important because diabetes increases a pup’s risk of other issues, including kidney disease and heart disease. Preventing unnecessary weight gain is one way to reduce your pup’s risk of diabetes.
