Hypoglycemia in Dogs Signs, Treatments:

Hypoglycemia in dogs is a dangerous condition, and can occur as a result of several other medical conditions Hypoglycemia is a condition in which blood glucose levels suddenly drop to a dangerous level below normal.



Since the brain is only able to use glucose as fuel, a lack of glucose in the blood means that the brain cannot function properly, leading to some extremely dangerous consequences. In addition, there may be other effects too, such as palpitations and nausea. Some common symptoms of hypoglycemia in dogs include loss of appetite, low energy levels, and weakness.



There may also be neurological symptoms such as loss of muscular control and coordination, trembling, twitching, seizures, and, in severe cases, unconsciousness or even a coma. As is apparent from this list of symptoms, hypoglycemia is not something to be taken lightly.

Diabetes is one common cause of hypoglycemia – not because of the diabetes itself, but usually as a result of an excessive dose of insulin.



However, certain small breeds of dogs, particularly toy breeds, are highly prone to this dangerous condition because their bodies cannot store much fat, which would otherwise be broken down and converted into energy. It is therefore extremely important to be aware of this danger if you own such a breed.

If you notice any of the symptoms described earlier, you should contact your vet immediately for dog care. In the meanwhile, try to get the dog to eat or drink something, especially something sweet. (Of course, here you must remember that chocolates are toxic for dogs.) If your dog refuses to eat or is unconscious, you can simply rub some sugar syrup on his or her gums. This of course is no substitute for medical treatment, but it can buy precious time. It may also help to keep the dog’s body temperature under control by using a hot water bottle. Hypoglycemia can cause hypothermia, which is itself extremely dangerous.

In order to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia in dogs, it is recommended that small breeds be fed thrice a day, even as adults. This helps to keep the blood glucose levels relatively stable. Puppies too are unable to control blood glucose levels very well, and this is one of the reasons why they must be fed at regular intervals. If your dog is diabetic and needs regular doses of insulin, you should make sure that you are giving the correct dose at the correct interval.