Humans are not alone in the struggle against diabetes, as the number of pets suffering from the illness continues to rise.

The disease in pets is still fairly unknown, so as part of Pet Diabetes Month, vets are providing advice to pet owners to help raise awareness.

Diabetes in pets is similar to that in humans, as it is affects the blood sugar levels and is most common in overweight and older animals.

Dr Huw Stacey, director of clinical services at Vets4Pets said: “Statistics show there are around half a million undiagnosed diabetic people in the UK. We can only imagine how many pets are undiagnosed.

“Owners should take their pet for a check-up if they are displaying any of the classic signs, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, changes in appetite or tiredness.

“Pets that are older, overweight or are a certain breed like Terrier and Corgi dogs or Burmese cats, are at a high risk of becoming diabetic.

“Once diagnosed, diabetes in pets can usually be managed successfully. We recommend regular insulin injections, a healthy diet and regular exercise.”

Treating pets with diabetes is now even easier with the development of the VetPen.

This is an alternative to vials and syringes and uses reusable insulin cartridges for minimal preparation time.

“The VetPen is very similar to insulin pens used to treat diabetes in humans and was designed to help pet owners to easily manage their pets’ diabetes at home,” added Dr Stacey.

“If pet owners are uncomfortable using syringes or worried about properly setting up the correct dosage, they can use the VetPen as a simple and accurate form of treatment.

“Whilst there is unfortunately no cure for diabetes, careful management of the condition can enable your pet to live the healthiest and happiest life possible.

“Further information can be found at www.vets4pets.com/pet-diabetes.”

Common symptoms of diabetes in pets:

• Frequent urination

• Weight loss

• Increased thirst

• Tiredness and lack of energy

• Changes in appetite

• Deteriorating coat condition

• Cataracts, where the lens of the eye becomes opaque, resulting in blindness

Risk factors in dogs

• Age (middle-aged to older dogs are more affected)

• Unspayed females

• Genetics

• Obesity

• Breed—these breeds have a higher risk of developing diabetes

? Cocker Spaniels

? Dachshunds

? Dobermann Pinschers

? German Shepherds

? Golden Retrievers

? Labrador Retrievers

? Pomeranians

? Terriers

? Toy Poodles

Risk factors in cats

• Age (older cats are more susceptible)

• Neutered males

• Genetics

• Other disorders or diseases, which can cause insulin reduction or resistance such as chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

• Obesity

• Physical inactivity