Low Blood Sugar Symptoms in Dogs
All mammals need sufficient blood sugar to maintain energy levels and normal body functions. When low blood sugar levels occur in dogs, the condition often goes untreated and can be fatal.
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Significance
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Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can be especially dangerous to puppies and newborns. Adult dogs are rarely diagnosed with hypoglycemia unless they are malnourished, neglected or abused.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of low blood sugar include weakness, restlessness, lack of coordination and seizures. Sometimes coma can occur.
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Prevention/Solution
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To prevent low blood sugar, puppies require a nutritional diet that includes mother's milk. Exercise should not be overdone. If symptoms occur, give the puppy or malnourished adult dog a dose of Karo syrup or oral glucose solution, and see your veterinarian immediately.
Types
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Hypoglycemia is decreased sugar in the blood. Hyperglycemia is excessive sugar in the blood, also known as diabetes mellitus.
Warning
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If your new puppy is not drinking mother's milk and appears cold and lethargic, see your veterinarian immediately, as the puppy may be hypoglycemic. All diabetic patients should have their insulin therapy monitored closely and blood glucose levels checked regularly.
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