Caring for Senior Pets with Diabetes in Fort Myers

Aging pets hold a special place in our hearts. They’ve been there through the years, offering loyalty and love. When pets get older, it’s time for us to do the same by caring for them through medical conditions. One condition we frequently see in older cats and dogs at Colonial Animal Hospital is diabetes. We want pet owners in the Fort Myers area to know that with the right care, diabetic cats and dogs can still enjoy a good quality of life. Let’s take a closer look at what to watch for and how to support your aging animal companion.

Why Are Senior Pets at Higher Risk for Diabetes?

As pets age, their bodies become more prone to metabolic issues. Insulin regulation and production can become disrupted over time. Some of the risk factors for diabetes in aging pets include:

• Obesity
• Inactivity or limited mobility
• History of pancreatitis
• Hormonal imbalances
• Long-term use of steroids or certain medications

Middle-aged and senior pets, especially those carrying extra weight, are most at risk. Ask your veterinarian about your pet’s risk level and say “yes” to routine diagnostic testing during vet visits. Diagnostics are one of the easiest ways for veterinarians to tell when something is wrong with the health of your pet.

How Can I Tell if My Pet is Diabetic?

Diabetes can be tricky to spot early, particularly in older pets whose changes in behavior may be mistaken for normal aging. The only way to know for sure is through lab work, but you can keep an eye out for warning signs.
Drinking more water than usual and urinating more frequently (or having accidents indoors) is often the first red flag of pet diabetes.

• Your pet losing weight despite eating normally (or even more) is a major indicator of diabetes or another serious health issue.
• A sudden drop in energy, reluctance to go for walks, or seeming “slower” than usual can point to an underlying issue. This one is particularly tricky with senior pets, as it can seem like a normal sign of aging.
• If your pet is having recurring urinary infections, this can sometimes point to diabetes.

If your senior pet is showing any of these signs, schedule a veterinary visit. Simple blood and urine tests can provide quick answers.

Managing Diabetes in Older Cats and Dogs

Once diagnosed, the goal is to stabilize blood sugar and reduce symptoms. The exact management strategy for diabetic pets will vary, as older pets can sometimes have other health conditions to consider. That being said, typical management for pet diabetes will involve:

Daily Insulin Injections
These are often required for dogs and sometimes for cats. A veterinary team will walk you through how to administer injections at home.

Diabetic Diet
Specially formulated prescription foods or a food plan will regulate glucose levels and support weight management.

Consistent Feeding and Exercise
Feeding your pet consistently and keeping up with low-impact exercise work together to keep your diabetic pet feeling their best.

Routine Monitoring and Follow-Ups
Routine vet visits and occasional glucose checks fine-tune a diabetic pet’s treatment plan over time.

Veterinary Care for Diabetic Pets in Fort Myers, FL

Caring for a senior pet with diabetes is often a very manageable part of life with support from a trusted veterinary team. Colonial Animal Hospital treats diabetic pets in Fort Myers, including cats and dogs from Estero, Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers, and neighboring Florida areas. If your senior dog or cat is showing signs of diabetes, schedule a consultation with Colonial Animal Hospital.