Don't be concerned if a cat wants to show a dog some affection
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Q: I'm really upset because my Doberman, Henry, was just diagnosed with diabetes. I'm not sure how that can happen since he doesn't eat sugar and he's only a few pounds overweight. My veterinarian explained, but I was so surprised -- I don't understand. He's 11 but not elderly. I'll give him insulin, but I'm worried. -- H. J., Tampa, FL
A: Diabetes has increased 32 percent in dogs and 16 percent in cats from 2006 to 2011 (according to Banfield State of Pet Health) and continues to increase.
"No one exactly knows why," says Dr. Ruth MacPete of San Diego. "Certainly, we've seen a corresponding increase of overweight and obese pets, and that plays a significant role. Also, in dogs, diabetes might occur more often in old age."
Dogs and cats don't get diabetes from eating too much sugar. Diabetes melitus is caused by the body suffering from either an absolute shortage of insulin (Type I), or from an incorrect response from the cells to the insulin that is being produced, a condition termed insulin resistance (Type II). Both of these conditions will prevent the muscles and organs from converting glucose to energy, and will result in excessive amounts of glucose in the blood, which is also referred to as hyperglycemia.
MacPete says, "What's most important to remember is that diabetes is a manageable disease. Henry can still live for a very long time, with insulin, regular glucose monitoring (perhaps even at your home), and regular veterinary visits."
Also, you said Henry is a "few pounds" overweight -- getting that weight off will benefit Henry for several reason, as will regular exercise.
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Q: My cat was never a kisser, but he's begun to kiss us. I like the affection not the nasty breath. You'd figure they'd make a mintier catnip or breath mints for cats, or something -- do they? -- Bangor, ME
A: Actually, catnip is a member of mint family, points out Dr. Kate Knutson, Bloomington, Minn.-based past president of the American Animal Hospital Association. However, a breath mint, if such a thing were available, would only be a temporary breath fix, at best. That's because something medical is likely going on with your kitty. Odd as it sounds, kidney disease can turn a breath sour, and certainly a dental problem may explain the awful breath. See your veterinarian, and Knutson bets that soon those kisses will soon smell sweet as sugar.
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