Dear VetBabble: Why is my diabetic dog still urinating frequently despite normal glucose readings?
It’s great that you’re taking care of your diabetic dog, but it’s concerning that they are still experiencing frequent urination in your home even after normal glucose readings. Your veterinarian has done an excellent job ruling out potential complications like urinary tract infections and other potential concerns through blood work and urinalysis tests. There might still be underlying issues that you could explore with your veterinarian. In this article, we’ll discuss three possible causes for this behavior and how they can be diagnosed and treated.
Possible Cause #1: Bladder Stones
One possible cause for your dog’s frequent urination is the presence of bladder stones. These can cause frequent urination because they take up space inside the bladder and aren’t always associated with an infection. An x-ray or abdominal ultrasound may be needed to diagnose this issue. In some cases, bladder stones can be dissolved with dietary changes, while in others, surgical removal is necessary. For more information on urinary issues in dogs, please read our article on Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs.
Possible Cause #2: Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism)
Another possible cause for your dog’s increased urination is Cushing’s Disease, which is an over-production of steroid hormones in the body. This condition can cause similar symptoms to diabetes, such as increased thirst, urination, and appetite. The disease can occur with or without diabetes and can sometimes make diabetes difficult to control. The tests used to diagnose this condition are blood tests done in the hospital, such as low-dose dexamethasone suppression or ACTH stimulation tests. Treatment for Cushing’s Disease may involve medication or surgery. For more information about diabetic issues in dogs, please read our article on Diabetes in Dogs.
Possible Cause #3: Cystitis
The third potential cause for frequent urination in your dog is cystitis, which is an inflammation of the bladder. This condition can cause blood in the urine and can lead to frequent urination as the dog tries to empty their bladder. Cystitis can be caused by bacterial infections, bladder stones, or other issues. Treatment for cystitis may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or addressing the underlying cause. For more information on this issue, please read our article on If There’s Blood in your Dog’s Urine it Could be Cystitis.
In conclusion, it’s important to discuss these possibilities with your veterinarian and see if they have already tested for these conditions or if they could add these tests on while your dog is under their care. Monitoring your dog’s water intake and behavior can also provide valuable information for your veterinarian. For further guidance on your dog’s excessive thirst and potential causes, please read our article on Why Does My Dog Drink More Water?. Good luck, and we hope your furry friend feels better soon!
