Hypoglycemia means low blood sugar, which causes symptoms mainly related to the affected dog's energy level. If it becomes severe, it can cause pain, seizures, unconsciousness, and even death in dogs.
The sugar, present in the form of glucose, provides energy to your dog's entire body. When the blood sugar level is too low, it affects the organs and brain function as well. Therefore, it is important to consult your veterinarian if you see signs that may indicate hypoglycemia.
Below we explain what you need to know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of hypoglycemia in dogs.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia in dogs
The symptoms of hypoglycemia in dogs usually begin with signs indicating low energy levels. However, these can quickly develop into more dangerous symptoms if left untreated. Sometimes the symptoms come and go, while others become persistent.
If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian:
- Lethargy
- Low responsiveness
- Weakness
- Loss of coordination
- Increased thirst or urination
- Decreased or increased appetite
- Weight loss
- Muscle cramps
- Trembling
- Irregular pulse or breathing
- Paralysis of the hind legs
- Seizures
- Blindness
- Collapse or unconsciousness
Causes of hypoglycemia in dogs
Hypoglycemia in dogs can be caused by glucose leaving the bloodstream, the dog's body not absorbing enough glucose from the diet, or little glucose being produced from the liver’s glycogen stores.
In addition, any condition affecting glucose levels can lead to hypoglycemia.
Here are some known causes of hypoglycemia in dogs:
- Excessive exercise
- Poor diet, malnutrition, or starvation
- Delayed feeding in puppies
- Insulin overdose
- High intake of artificial sweeteners
- Antifreeze ingestion
- The body using too much glucose during pregnancy
- Addison’s disease
- Sepsis
- Liver inflammation
- Pancreatic tumor
- Certain tumors, especially liver tumors, leukemia, and malignant melanoma
Treatment of hypoglycemia in dogs
Treatment of hypoglycemia aims to restore appropriate glucose levels in the bloodstream. In dogs experiencing hypoglycemic crises that cause seizures, the veterinarian may recommend rubbing corn syrup, sugar, fruit juices, or honey on the gums, followed by a light meal once seizures subside.
The veterinarian may advise continuing to feed the dog with light meals as they recover. If the hypoglycemic dog cannot eat, the veterinarian may administer concentrated dextrose (grape sugar) solution intravenously.
Further treatment depends on the cause of the hypoglycemia. If related to exercise or diet, the veterinarian will prescribe lifestyle changes. More frequent meals containing larger amounts of fat, protein, and complex carbohydrates may also be recommended.
Certain conditions, such as pancreatic tumors, may require surgery. Others, like Addison’s disease, can be treated with medication.
In cases where hypoglycemia cannot be treated otherwise, the veterinarian may prescribe anticonvulsants or steroids.
A proper diet, especially during puppyhood, can help prevent hypoglycemia. Therefore, you should ensure your dog receives appropriate nutrition and discuss the diet with your veterinarian.
You can read about our dog food survey here.
