Long-term Complications of Canine Diabetes

Diabetic dogs seem to develop fewer long-term complications than human diabetics. Obtaining optimal control of blood glucose concentration helps to prevent the long-term complications of diabetes mellitus.

Diabetic cataracts

Cataracts are seen far more commonly in cases of canine diabetes than feline diabetes. Excess glucose present in the lens of the eye due to hyperglycemia is converted into sorbitol, which causes an increase in the influx of water into the lens. The increase in water causes a breakdown of the lens fibers and disruption of the normal structure. The lens becomes cloudy resulting in loss of vision, usually in both eyes.

Treatment is by surgical removal of the lens. It is advisable to perform the surgery after the diabetic dog has been regulated successfully for at least 3 months.

Diabetic retinopathy

Very rare complication of canine diabetes caused by changes in retinal blood vessels.

Diabets complications in dogs

The long-term complications of diabetes mellitus are a result of prolonged hyperglycemia.