Diabetic Dog with Diarrhea – Top 3 Reasons Why

Here are a few common reasons that may explain the cause of diarrhea in diabetic dogs.

1. Effects of pancreatitis

Diarrhea might a be a result of the diabetic dog suffering from pancreatitis, a condition where the pancreas becomes swollen. According to BluePearl Pet Hospital, 30 – 40% of diabetic dogs suffer from pancreatitis. This condition can cause diarrhea by inhibiting the ability of the pancreas to produce enzymes that aid digestion.

2. High blood sugar levels

Diabetic dogs can also suffer from bouts of diarrhea if they have diabetic ketoacidosis. This is a serious condition that occurs when the dog’s blood glucose level is too high. It could happen as a result of the dog’s body not producing enough insulin or the dog’s body not responding to the insulin. In addition to diarrhea, dogs with diabetic ketoacidosis suffer from other clinical signs like excessive thirst, vomiting, and lethargy.

3. Stomach upsets

The diarrhea might not be necessarily linked to the effects of diabetes. Your diabetic dog might just be going through a stomach upset because he or she ate something wrong. We recommend calling the vet (even if the diabetic dog acts normal) as the dog may have eaten something inedible that may lead to serious health consequences.

What to feed a diabetic dog that has diarrhea

Ask your vet what is the most appropriate diet for your diabetic dog as the recommendations may differ on a case-by-case basis. Generally speaking, it’s best to provide a bland food diet if your diabetic dog has diarrhea. This may consist of foods with a low glycemic index score including lean protein and non-starchy vegetables.