Downloadable Infographic Offers Veterinarians and Pet Parents Crucial Information to Enhance Understanding and Improve Management of Diabetes in Cats and Dogs

Henry Schein Animal Health, the U.S. animal health business of Henry Schein, Inc. announced the launch of its Pet Diabetes Resource Center, a web-based hub designed to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and improve management of the disease among the veterinary community and pet parents. Created in recognition of November as Pet Diabetes Month, the resource center features links to educational materials, webinars, videos, articles, and a downloadable infographic that veterinary practices can share on social media and with their clients.

According to information provided on the resource center, diabetes is caused by the lack of insulin that regulates blood-sugar levels in not just humans, but cats and dogs as well. Many pet owners, however, may be unaware of the disease’s risk factors and warning signs. Diagnosing diabetes early and managing the disease properly are essential, as this can help prevent more serious medical issues, such as heart and kidney problems, severe cataracts in dogs, and hind-leg weakness in cats.

Veterinarians and pet owners can also use educational information available on the resource center to learn more about risk factors associated with diabetes in cats and dogs, such as age, genetics, and obesity. For dogs in particular, unspayed females and certain breeds are at greater risk, while the disease is more prevalent in neutered male cats and cats that get little physical exercise. Early warning signs that pet owners should be aware of include:

• Excessive thirst
• Excessive urination
• Excessive hunger while losing weight
• Lethargy
• Cloudy eyes (dogs)
• Doesn’t groom (cats)
• Thinning, dry, and dull hair

“Pet Diabetes Month is the ideal time for pet parents to learn about this disease’s risk factors, as well as the warning signs that may indicate a trip to the veterinarian is necessary,” said Fran Dirksmeier, President, Henry Schein Animal Health, North America. “For veterinarians, it’s the perfect time to start a conversation with their clients that could lead to longer, healthier, and happier lives for their patients. We at Henry Schein are committed to fulfilling our role as the total solutions provider for veterinarians, and we encourage practitioners and their staff to explore our Pet Diabetes Resource Center this November and throughout the year.”