Pets can get diabetes. The disease tends to be most prevalent in female dogs between the ages of four and fourteen and male cats between the ages of eight and thirteen. For dogs, diabetes is a permanent condition, however some 20% of cats can, with appropriate treatment, overcome the disease. Certain breeds of dogs are at a greater risk for developing the disease, including cairn terriers, dachshunds, keeshondens, miniature schnauzers, and poodles.

It's important that owners watch for signs of diabetes, which include increased water consumption and urine output as well as increased appetite and sudden weight loss. Fortunately, diabetes can be managed. Veterinarians must monitor blood sugar levels on a regular basis. Owners need to monitor their pet's food intake, which includes controlling portion size and eliminating snacks as well as following a feeding schedule. Diabetes management often also includes the administering of insulin shots on a daily basis.

More information on diabetes in pets can be found at http://www.petdiabetes.com/ .