Caring for Diabetic Pets: A Guide for Pet Business Owners

Aubrey Oiller
Nov 25, 2024
3 min read

Updated: Nov 3

As a pet business owner, you’re not only providing services, you’re also part of the support system that helps pets live healthier, happier lives. With the rise in pet diabetes diagnoses, especially in cats and dogs, understanding how to care for diabetic pets is becoming an essential skill for pet groomers, pet sitters, dog walkers, boarding facilities, and hydro/physios.

This guide will help you understand the basics of diabetic pet care, the signs to watch for, and how your business can play a vital role in supporting pet owners who manage their pets’ diabetes.

What Is Pet Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus in pets occurs when the body can’t properly regulate blood sugar due to insufficient insulin or insulin resistance. Just like in humans, dog diabetes and cat diabetes require careful monitoring, daily routines, and sometimes medication.

As a pet professional, you may administer insulin but only under the strict instruction of the owners and the directions given by their veterinary professional. You will need to be shown how to do this and have written instructions as part of thieir care plan. Your awareness and supportive care can make a huge difference in both the pet’s safety and the owner’s peace of mind. If you are uncomfortable working with a diabetic pet, you may want to refer the client to a more experienced pet care providor.

Why Pet Business Owners Need to Know About Diabetic Pets

When a pet parent chooses your services, they’re trusting you with their pet’s well-being. If their dog or cat has diabetes, you may need to adjust your care approach to:

Maintain consistent feeding schedules
Recognize signs of low or high blood sugar
Provide extra patience and attention during their time with you
Ensure safe exercise routines without overexertion

By showing you understand special needs pet care, you build trust, increase customer loyalty, and position your business as a true professional.

Spotting Signs of Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar, or hypoglycaemia, is a potentially dangerous situation for diabetic pets. It happens when blood sugar levels drop too far, often due to:

Too much insulin administered.
A missed or reduced meal.
Excessive exercise.

Watch out for these signs of hypoglycaemia:

Weakness or lethargy.
Shaking, trembling, or muscle twitching.
Sudden unsteadiness or difficulty walking.
Seizures.
Collapse or unconsciousness in severe cases.

Recognising these symptoms quickly can make all the difference.

What to Do in a Hypoglycaemic Episode

If you suspect your dog or cat has low blood sugar, stay calm and act promptly:

Check the symptoms: If they’re showing mild signs like lethargy or trembling but are conscious, it’s time to intervene.
Provide a quick source of sugar: Rubbing a small amount of honey, strawberry jam, or a sugar-water solution onto their gums can help raise their blood sugar. Avoid force-feeding if they’re unconscious or struggling to swallow.
Call the vet: Even if the symptoms improve after a quick sugar fix, consult your vet immediately for advice. Hypoglycaemia can recur if the underlying issue isn’t addressed.
Monitor them closely: Keep a watchful eye on your pet as you prepare to visit the vet. Keep the owner in the loop as well.

If your pet is unconscious, do not attempt to give sugar orally. Instead, seek emergency veterinary care straight away.

The Business Advantage: Why This Matters

By learning about diabetic pet care, you’re not just improving animal welfare, you’re also strengthening your brand. Pet owners are increasingly looking for pet professionals experienced in special-needs care, and highlighting this expertise can set your business apart.

Many pet first aid courses discuss diabetis and how you can help a pet who is in your care.

We Hope this Helped!

This is a guide and not medical advice. If you are in doubt about an unwell animal, always seek a vet's advice.

As a pet business owner, understanding how to care for diabetic pets adds value to your services and provides peace of mind to clients. You don’t need to be a vet to make a difference, you just need compassion, awareness, and preparation.

By promoting your knowledge in diabetic pet care, you’re positioning your business as a true pro.

👉 Want to enhance you or your staff’s knowledge on pet first aid and diabetic pet care? Contact me today to learn more about pet first aid courses designed for businesses like yours.