My diabetic dog is lethargic. Can I keep her blood sugar higher?

Question

Cairo was diagnosed with diabetes 2 weeks ago. Her glucose level was 28mmol/l when I took her to my vet. I’ve been stabalizing her between 10 -15mmol/l with insulin and diabetic diet as suggested by my very capable vet. My question is that she looks at her best when her levels are between 14-18mmol/l. She has a lot more energy and acts like her old self. When she goes below 14mmol/ she’s a lot more lethargic. I want to know why and if it’s safe to keep her levels a bit higher than it should be? Pet's info: Dog | Chow Chow | Female | unspayed | 10 years and 4 months old | 40 lbs

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH · Accepted Answer

Since Cairo has just started being stabilized with insulin and diet, it may take a little while for her body to adjust. In general, it is safer for a diabetic dog to be slightly above the desired range than to be too low, so if we are going to err on one side or the other, we generally prefer a little high. Depending on the frequency of your checks, Cairo may be falling slightly below the desired range at some point of the day which may account for for lethargy or she may just not yet be well adjusted. And every animal is different, so that may be the range that she feels the best. I would discuss your concerns with your veterinarian and see what range they would recommend maintaining her. It will likely be fine to maintain her a little high right now. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answers your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

My diabetic dog is lethargic. Can I keep her blood sugar higher?

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