How is diabetes mellitus managed in pets?

Diabetes mellitus in pets is primarily managed through a combination of insulin therapy and dietary control. Insulin therapy is crucial because it helps to regulate blood glucose levels, enabling the body to use glucose effectively for energy. Most diabetic pets require consistent insulin administration, and the dosage must often be adjusted based on monitoring of blood glucose levels and the pet's response to treatment.

Dietary control plays a significant role as well. A specifically formulated diet high in fiber and low in simple carbohydrates can help regulate blood sugar levels and aid in weight management. Feeding pets at consistent times and controlling their caloric intake helps to stabilize their blood sugar levels throughout the day.

While exercise and activity modification can help maintain a healthy weight in diabetic pets and enhance their overall well-being, they are not standalone treatments for diabetes. Additionally, surgical interventions and antibiotics are not appropriate management strategies for diabetes mellitus in pets, as they do not address the underlying issue of insulin deficiency or insulin resistance that characterizes the disease.