Dogs can develop type 1 or type 2 diabetes, just like humans. There are a few ways to help prevent your dog from developing diabetes. One way is to keep them at a healthy weight by feeding them the right amount of food and exercising them regularly.
Dogs with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing serious health problems, such as urinary tract infections, pancreatitis, and blindness. If your dog is diagnosed with diabetes, you will need to give them insulin injections and adjust its diet. But how much does dog insulin cost?
The cost of dog insulin can vary depending on the type of insulin, dosage size, and brand used. Generally, most types of insulin will range from $30-$150 per month. This cost can increase if your dog has a severe form of diabetes or if its diabetes is difficult to manage.
A typical annual cost for a small dog would be around $1000, while the average annual cost for a large dog would be approximately $1500.
Note: You can save money by purchasing cost-effective insulin brands and doing glucose tests at home instead of in a vet’s clinic.
What Is Diabetes
Diabetes in dogs is a metabolic disorder caused by either an absolute lack of the hormone insulin or an insufficient level of this hormone, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Without sufficient insulin, glucose (sugar) accumulates instead of providing energy for the body’s cells.
It is a severe condition that affects your dog’s quality of life and can lead to serious health complications.
Causes of Diabetes in Dogs
There are a variety of reasons why your dog may develop diabetes, including:
- Pancreas Problems
- Poor Diet
- Age
- Breed
- Genetics
Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs
Diabetic dogs often display the following symptoms:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Weight loss or gain
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Skin infections
Diagnosis of Diabetes in Dogs
Diagnosis for diabetes in dogs is done through various tests, including physical exams and lab work.
- Blood tests measure glucose levels, and urine tests look for increased glucose, ketones, or protein levels.
- In some cases, radiographs may be used to check the size of the pancreas.
- The most common procedures used in diagnosing diabetes in dogs include a complete blood count (CBC), blood glucose test, and urinalysis.
Treatment of Diabetes in Dogs
Once diabetes is diagnosed, treatment usually consists of the administration of insulin, diet changes, and exercise. Insulin is an important part of diabetes treatment as it helps control blood sugar levels by regulating the amount of glucose available to the cells in your dog’s body. The type of insulin prescribed will depend on your pet’s age, health condition, and type of diabetes.
How Much Does It Cost To Treat Diabetes in Dogs
The cost of treating diabetes in dogs depends on various factors, including the type of medication and treatment needed.
Cost of Insulin
The cost of insulin for dogs will vary depending on the size and breed of your pet. Generally, the cost for small dogs ranges between $40 and $80 per month, while larger dogs may need up to $80 to $150 per month. The exact amount required will depend on the severity of your dog’s condition and the recommended dosage by your veterinarian.
Cost of Syringes
The cost of syringes for dogs will vary depending on the size and type of syringe needed. Generally, you should budget $8 to $16 for insulin syringes used in a month.
Cost of Glucose Curve test
To determine the right dosage of insulin, your veterinarian may recommend a glucose curve test, which costs around $60 to $150. This test requires your dog to spend a day at an animal hospital and measure their blood glucose every two hours. According to the results, the veterinarian will determine if the insulin dose needs to be increased, decreased, or remain the same.
Cost of Glucose Meter
The glucose curve test should be repeated every 7-14 days until the correct insulin dose is determined. To do these tests at home, you will need to purchase a glucose meter and associated test strips. The cost of a glucose meter is around $60 and includes 25 test strips.
Cost of Diabetic Diet for Dogs
Diabetic dog food can be more expensive than regular food, but it is essential to help maintain stable blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs. Diabetic dog foods are formulated to reduce the amount of sugar and carbohydrates that can cause spikes in your pet’s blood sugar.
The cost of this type of prescription food is roughly $30 for an 8.5-pound bag and $80 for a 27.5-pound bag.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Diabetes in Dogs
The cost of diabetes in dogs may be affected by a variety of factors, including the
- Type and severity of the condition.
- Age and breed of your dog.
- The type of medication prescribed.
- Any additional treatments or tests required.
- The location of the veterinarian.
Final Thoughts on Dog Insulin Cost
Diabetes in dogs is a severe condition that requires regular monitoring and treatment. The cost of treating diabetes in dogs can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the supplies needed for treatment.
Generally, expect to spend anywhere from $30 to $150 per month on insulin, blood sugar tests, and other supplies. However, the cost of treating diabetes in dogs can be worth it when it comes to maintaining your pet’s health and quality of life.
