Hypoglycemia

The definition of hypoglycemia is an abnormally low blood glucose concentration. This is extremely common in puppies and kittens or toy breed dogs. However, it is also seen in pregnancy, pancreatic cancer, liver disease, diabetics, and hunting dogs.

In puppies and kittens, they can develop hypoglycemia from intestinal parasites, poor diet, or an underdeveloped liver. Diabetics can receive too much insulin which will cause the glucose to drop to dangerous levels. Hunting dogs, pregnant animals, and animals with cancer can overuse the normal amount of glucose in their body and cause low blood sugar.

The first signs of hypoglycemia are disorientation, lethargy, and weakness. These patients may attempt to eat more to raise their glucose levels. As the glucose continues to decrease, the pet will collapse and may even seizure.

Every owner of a toy breed or puppy or kitten need to be rehearsed on the signs of low blood sugar. The patient can become critical very quickly and immediate treatment greatly improves their prognosis. Corn syrup should be rubbed on the patient’s gums or on the roof of the mouth if they have not eaten in several hours or are starting to show early signs of hypoglycemia. If they have collapsed or are seizing, take them to the vet immediately-they will need intravenous glucose. Coccidia and intestinal worms are common parasites that will need to be eradicated. To avoid a future hypoglycemic crisis, these pets need to be fed at least 4 times daily until they are full grown.Owners of hunting dogs need to feed their pets a good diet of fat, protein, and carbohydrates a few hours before hunting. These pets will generally require some nourishment every few hours during the hunt.