Type I diabetes is usually diagnosed and most common in dogs. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Essentially, the body is not producing insulin to act as the key to allow glucose to enter the cell to be used for energy. Glucose builds in the blood stream since it cannot enter the cell. Once a pet is diagnosed with Type I diabetes, it will likely need insulin injections since the body cannot produce enough insulin on its own.
This type of diabetes is most common in cats. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Non-insulin dependent diabetes occurs when the body produces enough insulin, but the cells do not properly respond to insulin. Type II diabetes is often referred to as insulin resistance. A pet with Type II diabetes often requires insulin injections. Weight management also plays a very important role in managing Type II diabetes.
