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Psychogenic polydipsia or diabetes insipidus in dogs. Diabetes insipidus in dogs what is it

Every owner dreams of raising a healthy dog, but animals, like people, are susceptible to many diseases, the success in the treatment of which largely depends on the correct and timely diagnosis. Diabetes insipidus in dogs is not very common, however, it is a rather serious condition that requires the participation of professionals in its treatment.

Diabetes insipidus or diabetes insipidus is a chronic disease of unexplained etiology, which is characterized by disturbances in the system of water and electrolyte metabolism.

The disease has been reported in puppies 7 weeks of age and older as well as in adult dogs throughout their lives. Diabetes insipidus can be congenital or acquired.

Central and nephrogenic species

In dogs, this disease manifests itself in two forms, namely:

  1. Central. This type of disease is characterized by a decrease in the production of antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin), which is synthesized in the hypothalamus. In this case, the concentration function of the kidneys is impaired and the volume of urine excreted increases.
  2. Nephrotic. This type of disease develops with a sufficient level of vasopressin in the blood, but a decrease in the sensitivity of the renal tubules to it. As a result, there is a decrease in the reabsorption (reabsorption) of substances from the primary urine.

The central type of the disease, in turn, is divided into idiopathic- hereditary form of the disease and symptomatic- acquired as a result of pathological processes in the brain or other organs of the animal.

reference: Today it is believed that the central (functional) type of polyuria in dogs with diabetes insipidus is much more common than nephrotic (organic), but it must be understood that it is not yet possible to clearly distinguish between these two types of diabetes.

Causes of occurrence

Diabetes insipidus often occurs in dogs that have suffered traumatic brain injury and inflammation of the brain or its membranes, therefore it is believed that this disease is caused by damage to the centers in the dog's brain responsible for the regulation of water-salt metabolism, as well as a weakening of the functions of the pituitary gland, in which accumulates antidiuretic hormone.

reference: In the body, fluid intake and excretion is regulated by the drinking center located in various structures of the brain. This center systematizes the work of the excretory system, maintains the osmotic pressure of the blood and regulates the volume of circulating fluid.

In addition, the causes of this disease include tumors and vascular lesions of the brain, and the appearance of antibodies to hormone-producing cells. The nephrotic (renal) form of the disease can be caused by kidney disease or toxicity.

As a congenital pathology, this disease was registered in puppies of the German Pointer, Afghan Hound and Husky, a predisposition to diabetes insipidus was revealed in the pygmy poodle.

But still, in most cases, this disease develops as a secondary pathology in metabolic disorders and kidney diseases, such as renal failure, hypercalcemia, leading to nephrocalcinosis or renal amyloidosis.

Symptoms

The main manifestations of diabetes are the following symptoms:

  1. Polyuria. An increase in the amount of urine excreted by animals per day. The urine is colorless, has a low specific gravity, and contains little salt.
  2. Polydipsia. Feeling of unnatural, unquenchable thirst, the animal drinks a lot and greedily, and calms down only after taking water in quantities that significantly exceed the physiological norm.
  3. Exicosis. Dehydration of the body, which is often isotonic, in this form, the body loses both water and electrolytes in equal measure.
  4. Tachysystole. High heart rate.

The coat in dogs with diabetes insipidus is dry, the temperature and appetite are low. There is also a decrease in the secretory function of the salivary glands. Later, emaciation, vomiting and a decrease in blood pressure are detected.

If the disease is due to brain damage, the animal may develop neurological changes, as well as pituitary insufficiency.

Important! The danger of diabetes insipidus lies in the dehydration of the body, and a symptom such as polyuria persists even with severe dehydration.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of diabetes insipidus is complex, based on clinical data, medical history and laboratory tests. This disease must be differentiated from diseases with similar symptoms.

Such pathologies include diabetes mellitus, compensatory polyuria that occurs in chronic renal failure, and psychogenic polydipsia.

Analyzes

In a laboratory, to establish or clarify the diagnosis, the following studies are carried out:

  • Analysis of urine;
  • biochemical and general blood test;
  • functional diagnostic test;
  • tomography, if a tumor is suspected;
  • Ultrasound of the kidneys.

Attention! If possible, it is advisable to determine the concentration of antidiuretic hormone in the blood serum using laboratory diagnostics.

To establish the form of the disease, bacteriological, morphological and serological studies are also carried out, therefore, the process of making a diagnosis with diabetes is quite time consuming.

Treatment

When treating all forms of this disease, the animal must be provided with constant access to water. With the central form of diabetes insipidus, therapy is carried out desmopressin, which is a synthetic analogue of the hormone vasopressin... The drug is administered subcutaneously, intramuscularly or intravenously.

Also allowed intranasal method of drug administration. The dosage in each case is selected by the veterinarian individually, taking into account the available laboratory parameters and the clinical picture of the disease.

For the treatment of the nephrogenic form of the disease, it is used godrochlorothiazide the dosage of which is determined by the veterinarian. The drug is given orally, twice a day until a therapeutic effect is achieved, namely, a decrease in thirst and polyuria.

Plays an important role in the treatment of diabetes insipidus diet therapy... The dog is limited to the intake of protein and table salt with food, a large amount of plant foods and foods rich in potassium are introduced into the diet.

Course in puppies and pregnant females

Pregnancy of a dog can provoke its manifestation (exacerbation) of the disease, but after the birth and feeding of the puppies, the animal's condition returns to normal.

In puppies, diabetes insipidus is manifested by growth retardation, decreased appetite, vomiting when eating, and also constipation and hypotension are observed. In advanced cases, convulsions and coma occur.

Forecast

The prognosis for diabetes insipidus in dogs is made taking into account the form of the course of the disease, so with toxic etiology, if there are no irreversible changes in the renal tubules, the disease is completely cured when the source of poisoning is eliminated.

With the central form of the disease, with the help of medical procedures, it is possible to maintain the water-electrolyte balance at the proper level. In this case, the dog will live for more than one year, provided that such therapy will be carried out to her for life. The most unfavorable is the nephrotic form of the disease.

Conclusion

Diabetes insipidus in dogs is a rare disease that requires serious treatment. To prevent this disease, it is necessary to protect animals from injury. The dog's diet should be balanced and rich in vital vitamins and minerals.

In contact with

Diabetes insipidus is a disease in which there is a disorder of water and electrolyte balance, primary polyuria, secondary thirst and low urine density.

Diabetes insipidus can be of central origin, in which there is a cessation or decrease in the production of secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), and nephrogenic (renal) diabetes insipidus, caused by a violation of the receptivity of the renal tubular receptors to the action of ADH due to which there is no reabsorption of water. Both types of diabetes insipidus are rare in dogs and cats.

Diabetes insipidus of central origin develops as a result of congenital anomalies (underdevelopment of the pituitary gland), after recovering from infectious diseases (plague), as well as as a consequence of injuries and tumors of the pituitary gland. In cases where nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is congenital, there may be a lack of ADH receptors in the renal tissue. Endocrine and metabolic disorders (hypercortisolism, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia) have a clinical picture of diabetes insipidus. With purulent inflammation of the uterus, temporary diabetes insipidus may occur, associated with the release of substances competitive with ADH into the blood by bacteria.

Congenital forms of the disease usually appear before 6 months of age. Central diabetes insipidus caused by a pituitary tumor is more common in animals over 5 years of age.

Diagnostics

The clinical picture includes thirst, polyuria. Often, urinary incontinence is observed, associated not with incontinence as such, but with the dog's physical inability to timely empty the bladder naturally.

Diabetes insipidus is differentiated from hypercortisolism, diabetes mellitus, hypercalcemia, pyometra, renal failure, liver disease, pyelonephritis, hyperthyroidism (cats), psychogenic polydipsia.

Laboratory diagnostics

General and biochemical blood tests are usually without abnormalities, sometimes hypernatremia can be detected. The density of urine is low (usually less than 1008-1012). The urine itself is almost colorless and looks more like water than urine. If possible, it is recommended to determine the concentration of ADH in the blood serum by laboratory diagnostics.

Also, a test with deprivation of water is carried out, with suspicion of central diabetes insipidus - a test with the introduction of synthetic ADH (while water consumption should decrease by 50% in 3-5 days). An increase in urine density and a decrease in thirst indicates central diabetes insipidus. Before the ADH test, all other possible causes of polyuria and polydipsia must be ruled out. Conducting with water deprivation requires hospitalization, since if a dog is deprived of fluid, dehydration can occur, which poses a threat to the life of the animal, and a test with the introduction of ADH can be performed on an outpatient basis.

If a pituitary tumor is suspected, a computed tomography of the brain or magnetic resonance imaging is performed.

Treatment of diabetes insipidus in dogs and cats

The animal must be provided with free access to water. In central diabetes insipidus, replacement therapy with a synthetic analogue of ADH - desmopressin. The drug is instilled into the conjunctival sac 1-2 drops 1-2 times a day or injected subcutaneously at a dose of 2-5 μg with the same frequency. Overdose of desmopressin with excessive fluid intake can lead to water intoxication.

For the treatment of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, chlorothiazide (diabinesis) is used at a dose of 10-40 mg / kg orally 2 times a day.

The dose of desmopressin is adjusted in the course of treatment, focusing on the clinical picture. The main criterion for improvement is the disappearance or reduction of thirst. Laboratory tests (determination of hematocrit, serum sodium concentration) are rarely required, mainly if dehydration is suspected.

The prognosis of the course of diabetes insipidus is unfavorable, but in case of central lesion, substitution therapy can be carried out to maintain a close to normal balance of electrolytes and water. In some cases of disease associated with trauma, it is possible to restore the function of the pituitary gland. With acquired forms of the disease, the prognosis depends on the underlying cause. Without treatment, increasing dehydration can lead to the development of stupor and subsequent coma.

Briefly answering questions about diabetes: how to identify, how to treat, what to feed

Diabetes mellitus in dogs cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. With due diligence, your dog will live happily, and besides you, no one will even know that he has diabetes. Treatment and nutrition play an important role in this.

In this article, we will briefly answer the most important questions:

What is diabetes in dogs?

Glucose, or more simply sugar, is the main source of energy for animals. Glucose enters the bloodstream from food. In order for the cells to "understand" that it is time to take in energy, the pancreas releases the hormone insulin into the bloodstream. This is how cells "see" glucose and consume it. Blood sugar decreases and the pancreas stops producing insulin.

In diabetes, one of two things happens: either the gland does not produce insulin, or the cells "do not see" it. In any case, the cells do not understand that there is a lot of glucose in the blood and it is time to process it into energy. As a result, the blood sugar is elevated, and the cells themselves starve at the same time. This situation leads to unpleasant manifestations.

What are the symptoms of diabetes in dogs?

The most common signs of diabetes in dogs are constant thirst, frequent urination, obesity or weight loss, lethargy, loss of vision, cystitis.

Thirst, dehydration, increased urination... There is so much glucose in the blood that it starts to come out along with the urine. This does not happen in a healthy state. Leaving the body, glucose, as it were, draws water from the blood. As a result, the dog suffers from dehydration, is constantly thirsty and pees a lot.

Increased appetite and weight loss... Cells in diabetes do not process glucose, and for the body it looks like starvation. After all, new energy is not coming in. So the animal begins to eat more, but glucose still comes out in the urine. The body launches a compensation mechanism: first, it consumes energy reserves in the muscles, then begins to break down the reserves of fats and proteins. As a result, the dog constantly eats, but still loses weight.

Obesity Is another sign of diabetes in dogs.

Cystitis often develops in diabetes. Due to the abundance of sugar in the urine, bacteria grow rapidly

Cataract and vision loss... High blood sugar affects almost all systems, including the clouding of the lens of the eye.

All of these symptoms can occur individually. Increased thirst and urination are manifested against the background of renal failure, cataracts can develop simply with age, obesity - due to improper nutrition.

With diabetes in dogs, the symptoms will be very different. Therefore, in order to diagnose diabetes, you will have to conduct a whole series of studies: blood and urine tests, X-rays, ultrasound, ECG.

How is diabetes insipidus different in dogs?

Diabetes insipidus is also associated with the fact that the dog's body does not perceive a certain hormone - antidiuretic hormone (ADH). As a result, the water-salt balance is disturbed, and salt accumulates in the body. This leads to symptoms similar to diabetes mellitus: constant thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, lethargy. A specific symptom of diabetes insipidus in dogs is that the pet does not eat dry food, because it contains a lot of salt and little water.

What are the treatments for diabetes in dogs?

It is impossible to completely cure diabetes, but it is possible to control it. Outwardly, the disease may not manifest itself in any way, and if the owner takes care of the dog, its lifestyle will practically not change. With diabetes mellitus in dogs, treatment is based on the control of insulin in the body, because the dog has little of its own insulin, or the body does not perceive it. Therefore, the amount of insulin must be increased - that is, to do insulin injections. The frequency and dosage of injections are calculated individually for each dog, this can only be done by a veterinarian.

Bitches are helped by sterilization. The body's need for insulin after it is greatly reduced.

Another important element of control is nutrition. A special diet for diabetic dogs is needed, which takes into account the composition of the food and the frequency of feeding. Frequency is very important because glucose must be supplied to the body in small and even quantities. Otherwise, the amount of sugar in the blood will change in leaps and bounds, and for a diabetic dog it is bad and dangerous. Your doctorshould be d Ietu or recommend a special food for diabetic dogs. You can buy it at your veterinary pharmacy.

How to feed a dog with diabetes?

With diabetes, the blood sugar level is high, so our task is to make sure that glucose enters the bloodstream slowly and evenly. Otherwise, the body simply cannot cope with the abundance of glucose. The amount of food is calculated so that the dog remains thin. The fuller the dog, the worse the cells in its body absorb insulin.

Diabetic dog nutrition is based on foods that are low in sugar and high in protein. Sweets, baked goods, fried, canned food, fatty foods are categorically prohibited. This is harmful for healthy dogs, and for diabetic dogs, such food can be deadly.

Regular food is not suitable for diabetic dogs. Its composition includes a sufficient amount of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, but this balance is dangerous for a diabetic dog. We need a special dietary food, which is less fat and carbohydrates.

It is better not to buy sweets and delicacies from the store. Commercially prepared food is usually high in sugar and fat. As a reward, you can give food that is high in fiber and protein. For example, cubes of chicken or zucchini.

What shouldn't be given to dogs with diabetes

  • Grapes
  • Corn and wheat flour
  • Canned food
  • Fatty meat, leather
  • White rice
  • Chocolate
  • Garlic
  • Baked dog treats
  • Artificial sweeteners

How else can a veterinarian help?

In addition to making a diagnosis, the veterinarian will prescribe a course of treatment, tell you how to properly feed the dog and change it and your lifestyle. There are many subtleties to consider. For example, you should always have a supply of insulin at home and on a trip, but you can store an open package no longer than 1, -2 months. So be careful and ask questions. Ask your doctor to teach you how to store insulin, draw it into a syringe, and inject it.

In addition, you need to periodically see a veterinarian in order to monitor the dynamics of the disease.

It is characterized by a serious malfunction in the water-electrolyte system of the body, which is manifested by polydipsia and polyuria. Pathology develops slowly, clinical signs are not obvious, which complicates the diagnosis.

Causes of development in dogs:

Symptoms of nephrological, central diabetes:

  • Polyuria. This increases both the volume of urine and the frequency of urge. The color of the urine becomes very light. The dog asks to go outside more and more often, often cannot bear it.
  • Polydipsia. The animal is constantly thirsty, drinks a lot and often.
  • Violation of the gastrointestinal tract - constipation due to dehydration.
  • Decreased appetite. The dog often refuses dry food, and eats wet food reluctantly.
  • Against the background of anorexia, the weight of the animal decreases.
  • The skin and mucous membranes are dehydrated. There is anemia of the gums, mucous membranes of the eyes. The skin loses its turgor. Dandruff and itching may occur.
  • Problems with the cardiovascular system: changes in blood pressure (hypotension), heart failure, bradycardia.
  • Lethargy, apathy, lack of interest in games, walks, unwillingness to follow commands.
  • In advanced cases, a four-legged patient has muscle tremors, convulsions. The dog may fall into a coma.

Death occurs 1-2 years after the development of the disease due to exhaustion.

Lymphodenitis (swollen lymph nodes) is not a symptom characteristic of endocrine pathology. A slight increase in regional lymph nodes, as a rule, may be associated with the presence of an inflammatory process in the body.

Diagnostics include:

  • collection of anamnesis;
  • elucidation of the factors provoking polydipsia and polyuria;
  • clinical examination of the animal;
  • general urine analysis, biochemical blood test;
  • analysis of the level of vasopressin;
  • X-ray examination of the brain, MRI, CT.

Differential diagnosis is carried out in relation to diabetes mellitus, renal failure, hyperadrenocorticism, polydipsia on the basis of nerves.

If the disease is caused by a violation of the production of vasopressin, then the treatment is substitutional - an analogue of the antidiuretic hormone (Desmopressin) is prescribed.

Ease the condition a sick pet is helped by cleansing the blood by intravenous injection, removing sodium from the body. In the case of a nephrogenic type of disease, diuretics have a good effect.

Into complex therapy includes drugs to maintain kidney function, cardiovascular system.

Read more in our article on diabetes insipidus in dogs and its treatment.

With a condition such as diabetes insipidus in dogs, owners of four-legged pets are rare. The disease is characterized by a serious malfunction in the water-electrolyte system of the body, which is manifested by polydipsia and polyuria.

According to the observation of veterinary specialists, the pathology develops slowly, clinical signs are not obvious, which complicates the diagnosis. Owners contact, as a rule, when the disease is running and irreversible processes in the body have developed.

Endocrine disease is caused by the fact that a part of the brain (hypothalamus) produces an insufficient amount of the hormone vasopressin. This leads to a dysfunction of the renal tubules, an increase in the volume of urine excreted.

This type of diabetes insipidus on the etiological factor is considered to be central. Polydipsia inevitably leads to dehydration of the animal and disruption of all body systems.

The pathogenetic mechanism of the development of the disease may be associated with impaired renal function. The nephrogenic type of ailment develops when the renal tubules fail. The renal structures do not respond to the action of antidiuretic hormone, which is accompanied by impaired water reabsorption and, as a consequence, the development of polyuria, intoxication and impaired water-salt balance.

Causes of development in dogs

According to veterinary therapists, the causes of central diabetes insipidus in dogs include, first of all, trauma and concussion of the brain and neoplasms (tumors, cysts). Often, congenital pathologies in the structure of the hypothalamic-pituitary part of the brain lead to the development of the disease.

Experienced dog breeders note that the most common congenital pathology of the hypothalamus with the subsequent development of diabetes insipidus is characteristic of the Afghan hound. Underdevelopment of the pituitary system (nanism) is characteristic of the German shorthaired pointer.

The nephrogenic type of ailment, according to veterinary specialists, is usually the result of severe intoxication, an inflammatory process in the kidneys. The cause of the development of renal diabetes insipidus is often nephrosis. The disease is characterized not only by suppression of the kidneys, but also by a decrease in the sensitivity of the renal tubules to the action of the antidiuretic hormone produced by the hypothalamus.

Symptoms of nephrological, central diabetes

Veterinarians advise owners not to overlook the following symptoms of diabetes insipidus in dogs:


Death occurs 1-2 years after the development of the disease due to exhaustion.

Watch this video for the causes of polydipsia and polyuria in dogs:

Are the lymph nodes enlarged?

Many owners, concerned about the health of their furry friends, ask veterinarians whether lymph nodes are swollen in dogs with diabetes insipidus. Lymphodenitis is not a symptom characteristic of endocrine pathology. A slight increase in regional lymph nodes, as a rule, can be associated with the presence of an inflammatory process in the pet's body.

Analyzes and instrumental diagnostics

In the arsenal of a veterinary therapist there are a number of studies that allow diagnosing diabetes insipidus in dogs. First of all, a professional will collect anamnesis, find out the factors provoking polydipsia and polyuria, and conduct a clinical examination of the animal.

A general urine test will help to suspect a pathology, which will show a decrease in the specific gravity of urine. A biochemical blood test for an ailment can show an excess of sodium caused by dehydration.

To make a final diagnosis, the veterinarian performs tests for diabetes insipidus in the dog, which determine the level of vasopressin. If the doctor suspects that the synthesizing function of the hypothalamus is impaired, then the animal is injected with an antidiuretic hormone against the background of fluid restriction, and then control blood tests are performed.

The differential diagnosis is carried out in relation to diabetes mellitus, renal failure, hyperadrenocorticism, and polydipsia on the basis of the nervous system.

Diabetes insipidus treatment

The therapeutic strategy depends mainly on the cause of the endocrine disease. In the event that the disease is caused by a violation of the production of vasopressin, then the treatment is substitutional.

A sick dog is prescribed an antidiuretic hormone analog. Desmopressin is a synthetic substitute for vasopressin that enhances water reabsorption in the kidneys and increases urine density. The drug is used in the form of drops subconjunctivally, as well as in the form of subcutaneous injections. Desmopressin is used under the strict supervision of a veterinarian, since an overdose leads to serious intoxication of the body.

Cleansing the blood by intravenous injections, removing sodium from the body, helps to alleviate the condition of a sick pet. In the case of a nephrogenic type of disease, diuretics have a good effect.

The complex therapy of endocrine disease includes drugs to maintain the function of the kidneys and the cardiovascular system.

Diabetes insipidus in dogs does not have pronounced symptoms, so treatment does not always bring tangible results. The prognosis for cancer of the brain is unfavorable. As a rule, with caution, the veterinary specialist makes a prognosis for an animal with a nephrogenic form of the disease. Substitution and symptomatic therapy allows you to maintain the physiological functions of the body, but does not lead to a complete cure for the hairy patient.

Jade in a dog. From the article you will learn about the causes and symptoms of nephritis in dogs, the classification of pathology, methods of diagnosis and treatment.

And more about congenital and acquired heart failure in dogs.

Diabetes insipidus in dogs is a rare endocrine disease. The complexity of the pathology lies in the fact that the owner notices pronounced symptoms when the pet has developed severe dehydration and cachexia. Substitution therapy improves the condition of the pet while excluding the oncological cause of the disease. In the nephrogenic type of the disease, treatment is based on the use of diuretics, drugs that improve the function of the kidneys and heart.

In a healthy dog's body, the kidneys are responsible for filtering blood, maintaining water-salt balance, and urine concentration. Normally, the volume of urine excreted is regulated by the renal tubules, which are responsible for the process of reabsorption of fluid and electrolytes.

In turn, the reabsorption process depends on the action of the antidiuretic hormone secreted by the pituitary / hypothalamic tissue (vasopressin). With a lack of vasopressin, the renal tubules cease to effectively concentrate urine, the volume of urine discharge increases significantly, and rapid dehydration of the body occurs.

At the same time, a large amount of electrolytes, substances necessary for the normal functioning of organs and tissues, are lost. Compensatory, the dog begins to drink a lot.

Diabetes insipidus in dogs

It is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by the secretion of large amounts of hypotonic urine. Diabetes insipidus can be congenital and acquired.

There are 2 types of such diabetes:

  • Central diabetes insipidus.
  • Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

In the first case, there is a decrease in the release of antidiuretic hormone (its lack).

In the second case, the disease occurs due to a decrease in the sensitivity of the renal tubules to the action of the hormone (the pituitary gland continues to secrete vasopressin in an adequate volume, but the reabsorption of urine is sharply reduced).

The reasons

Central diabetes insipidus occurs due to trauma, tumor, or congenital malformation of the hypothalamic-pituitary system. Can be diagnosed in dogs of various breeds. The age of onset of pathology is from 7 weeks to 14 years. Recorded as a congenital disease in Afghan Hound and German Shorthaired Pointer puppies.

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus as a congenital disease has been identified in husky puppies. In most cases, it develops as a secondary pathology with various renal diseases, metabolic disorders.

Signs

Symptoms of diabetes insipidus in dogs:

  • increased thirst, increased urination (polyuria / polydipsia);
  • dehydration (dehydration);
  • disorientation, lethargy, apathy;
  • weight loss, wasting;
  • convulsions, tremors.

The main danger of the disease is severe dehydration of the body, a drop in blood pressure, ischemia of the renal tissue. A transition to a coma, death of the patient is possible.

Diagnostics

At the reception, the doctor conducts a physical examination of the patient, collects anamnesis data.

Laboratory diagnostics includes a general clinical, biochemical blood test, urinalysisg. This makes it possible to exclude such differential diagnoses as renal failure, diabetes mellitus.

The fluid deprivation test is aimed at verifying the diagnosis of "psychogenic thirst" (the dog drinks a lot due to its temperament).

A desmopressin-stimulated test (administration of a synthetic analogue of vasopressin) reveals the nature of diabetes insipidus (central / nephrogenic).

Determination of the level of pituitary hormones (exclusion of hyperadrenocorticism).

MRI (detection of tumors, structural anomalies of the hypothalamic-pituitary system).

Treatment

In central diabetes insipidus, replacement therapy with desmopressin is performed (it is instilled conjunctivally, or in the nose) 2 times a day. In the case of diabetes of nephrogenic origin, an increased dose of desmopressin, thiazide diuretics, chlorpromazine, and a hypersaline diet are used.

The prognosis is good if central diabetes is not caused by a pituitary tumor, cautious in nephrogenic diabetes. In the case of traumatic brain injury, transient diabetes insipidus may occur (symptoms disappear 2-3 weeks after the incident).

A source:

Diabetes insipidus in dogs and cats

Diabetes insipidus is a disease in which there is a disorder of water and electrolyte balance, primary polyuria, secondary thirst and low urine density.

This ailment can be of central origin, in which there is a cessation or decrease in the production of secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), and nephrogenic (renal) diabetes insipidus, caused by a violation of the receptivity of the renal tubule receptors to the action of ADH, which prevents water reabsorption. Both types of diabetes insipidus are rare in dogs and cats.

Diabetes insipidus of central origin develops as a result of congenital anomalies (underdevelopment of the pituitary gland), after recovering from infectious diseases (plague), as well as as a consequence of injuries and tumors of the pituitary gland.

In cases where nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is congenital, there may be a lack of ADH receptors in the renal tissue. Endocrine and metabolic disorders (hypercortisolism, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia) have a clinical picture of diabetes insipidus.

With purulent inflammation of the uterus, temporary diabetes insipidus may occur, associated with the release of substances competitive with ADH into the blood by bacteria.

Congenital forms of the disease usually appear before 6 months of age. Central diabetes insipidus caused by a pituitary tumor is more common in animals over 5 years of age.

How to recognize?

The clinical picture includes thirst, polyuria. Often, urinary incontinence is observed, associated not with incontinence as such, but with the dog's physical inability to timely empty the bladder naturally.

Diabetes insipidus is differentiated from hypercortisolism, diabetes mellitus, hypercalcemia, pyometra, renal failure, liver disease, pyelonephritis, hyperthyroidism (cats), psychogenic polydipsia.

Laboratory diagnostics

General and biochemical blood tests are usually without abnormalities, sometimes hypernatremia can be detected. The density of urine is low (usually less than 1008-1012). The urine itself is almost colorless and looks more like water than urine. If possible, it is recommended to determine the concentration of ADH in the blood serum by laboratory diagnostics.

Also, a test with deprivation of water is carried out, if central diabetes insipidus is suspected, a test with the introduction of synthetic ADH (while water consumption should be reduced by 50% in 3-5 days). An increase in urine density and a decrease in thirst indicates central diabetes insipidus.

Before the ADH test, all other possible causes of polyuria and polydipsia must be ruled out.

Conducting with water deprivation requires hospitalization, since if a dog is deprived of fluid, dehydration can occur, which poses a threat to the life of the animal, and a test with the introduction of ADH can be performed on an outpatient basis.

If a pituitary tumor is suspected, a computed tomography of the brain or magnetic resonance imaging is performed.

Therapy

The animal must be provided with free access to water. In central diabetes insipidus, replacement therapy with a synthetic analogue of ADH - desmopressin.

Source: http://zoomak.ru/zabolevaniya/nesaharnyj-diabet-u-sobak.html

Rare disease - diabetes insipidus in dogs: how to identify and treat pathology

Diabetes insipidus in dogs characterized by a serious malfunction in the water-electrolyte system of the body, which is manifested by polydipsia and polyuria. Pathology develops slowly, clinical signs are not obvious, which complicates the diagnosis.

Causes of development in dogs:

Symptoms of nephrological, central diabetes:

  • Polyuria. This increases both the volume of urine and the frequency of urge. The color of the urine becomes very light. The dog asks to go outside more and more often, often cannot bear it.
  • Violation of the gastrointestinal tract - constipation due to dehydration.
  • Decreased appetite. The dog often refuses dry food, and eats wet food reluctantly.
  • The skin and mucous membranes are dehydrated. There is anemia of the gums, mucous membranes of the eyes. The skin loses its turgor. Dandruff and itching may occur.
  • Problems with the cardiovascular system: changes in blood pressure (hypotension), heart failure, bradycardia.
  • Lethargy, apathy, lack of interest in games, walks, unwillingness to follow commands.

Death occurs 1-2 years after the development of the disease due to exhaustion.

Lymphodenitis (swollen lymph nodes) is not a symptom characteristic of endocrine pathology. A slight increase in regional lymph nodes, as a rule, may be associated with the presence of an inflammatory process in the body.

Diagnostics include:

  • collection of anamnesis;
  • elucidation of the factors provoking polydipsia and polyuria;
  • clinical examination of the animal;
  • general urine analysis, biochemical blood test;
  • analysis of the level of vasopressin;
  • X-ray examination of the brain, MRI, CT.

Differential diagnosis is carried out in relation to diabetes mellitus, renal failure, hyperadrenocorticism, polydipsia on the basis of nerves.

If the disease is caused by a violation of the production of vasopressin, then the treatment is substitutional - an analogue of the antidiuretic hormone (Desmopressin) is prescribed.

Ease the condition a sick pet is helped by cleansing the blood by intravenous injection, removing sodium from the body. In the case of a nephrogenic type of disease, diuretics have a good effect.

Into complex therapy includes drugs to maintain kidney function, cardiovascular system.

Read more in our article on diabetes insipidus in dogs and its treatment.

Overview of Diabetes Insipidus

With a condition such as diabetes insipidus in dogs, owners of four-legged pets are rare. The disease is characterized by a serious malfunction in the water-electrolyte system of the body, which is manifested by polydipsia and polyuria.

According to the observation of veterinary specialists, the pathology develops slowly, clinical signs are not obvious, which complicates the diagnosis. Owners contact, as a rule, when the disease is running and irreversible processes in the body have developed.

Endocrine disease is caused by the fact that a part of the brain (hypothalamus) produces an insufficient amount of the hormone vasopressin. This leads to a dysfunction of the renal tubules, an increase in the volume of urine excreted.

This type of diabetes insipidus on the etiological factor is considered to be central. Polydipsia inevitably leads to dehydration of the animal and disruption of all body systems.

The pathogenetic mechanism of the development of the disease may be associated with impaired renal function. The nephrogenic type of ailment develops when the renal tubules fail. The renal structures do not respond to the action of antidiuretic hormone, which is accompanied by impaired water reabsorption and, as a consequence, the development of polyuria, intoxication and impaired water-salt balance.

And here is more about why the dog is losing weight.

Causes of development in dogs

According to veterinary therapists, the causes of central diabetes insipidus in dogs include, first of all, trauma and concussion of the brain and neoplasms (tumors, cysts). Often, congenital pathologies in the structure of the hypothalamic-pituitary part of the brain lead to the development of the disease.

Experienced dog breeders note that the most common congenital pathology of the hypothalamus with the subsequent development of diabetes insipidus is characteristic of the Afghan hound. Underdevelopment of the pituitary system (nanism) is characteristic of the German shorthaired pointer.

The nephrogenic type of ailment, according to veterinary specialists, is usually the result of severe intoxication, an inflammatory process in the kidneys.

The cause of the development of renal diabetes insipidus is often nephrosis.

The disease is characterized not only by suppression of the kidneys, but also by a decrease in the sensitivity of the renal tubules to the action of the antidiuretic hormone produced by the hypothalamus.

Symptoms of nephrological, central diabetes

Veterinarians advise owners not to overlook the following symptoms of diabetes insipidus in dogs:

  • As a result of a decrease in the specific gravity of urine and its density, polyuria is observed in a four-legged pet. This increases both the volume of urine and the frequency of urge. The color of the urine becomes very light.
  • The dog asks to go outside more and more often, often cannot bear it and makes puddles in the wrong place.
  • Polydipsia. The animal is constantly thirsty, drinks a lot and often.
  • With nephrological diabetes insipidus in dogs, the owner notes a violation of the gastrointestinal tract. The pet has constipation due to dehydration.
  • Decreased appetite. The dog often refuses dry food, and eats wet food reluctantly.
  • Against the background of anorexia, the weight of the animal decreases.
  • The skin and mucous membranes are dehydrated. The owner observes anemia of the gums and the mucous membrane of the eyes. The skin loses its turgor. Dandruff and itching may occur.
  • Against the background of a violation of water-salt metabolism, problems with the cardiovascular system are observed: a change in blood pressure (hypotension), a malfunction of the heart, bradycardia.
  • Lethargy, apathy, lack of interest in games, walks, unwillingness to follow commands are associated with intoxication of the body due to a violation of the water-electrolyte balance in the body.
  • In advanced cases, a four-legged patient has muscle tremors, convulsions. The dog may fall into a coma.

Death occurs 1-2 years after the development of the disease due to exhaustion.

Watch this video for the causes of polydipsia and polyuria in dogs:

Are the lymph nodes enlarged?

Many owners, concerned about the health of their furry friends, ask veterinarians whether lymph nodes are swollen in dogs with diabetes insipidus.

Lymphodenitis is not a symptom characteristic of endocrine pathology.

A slight increase in regional lymph nodes, as a rule, can be associated with the presence of an inflammatory process in the pet's body.

Analyzes and instrumental diagnostics

In the arsenal of a veterinary therapist there are a number of studies that allow diagnosing diabetes insipidus in dogs. First of all, a professional will collect anamnesis, find out the factors provoking polydipsia and polyuria, and conduct a clinical examination of the animal.

A general urine test will help to suspect a pathology, which will show a decrease in the specific gravity of urine. A biochemical blood test for an ailment can show an excess of sodium caused by dehydration.

To make a final diagnosis, the veterinarian performs tests for diabetes insipidus in the dog, which determine the level of vasopressin. If the doctor suspects that the synthesizing function of the hypothalamus is impaired, then the animal is injected with an antidiuretic hormone against the background of fluid restriction, and then control blood tests are performed.

In order to identify the oncological cause of the development of endocrine pathology, an X-ray examination of the brain, magnetic resonance imaging or computer examination is performed on the sick pet.

The differential diagnosis is carried out in relation to diabetes mellitus, renal failure, hyperadrenocorticism, and polydipsia on the basis of the nervous system.

Diabetes insipidus treatment

The therapeutic strategy depends mainly on the cause of the endocrine disease. In the event that the disease is caused by a violation of the production of vasopressin, then the treatment is substitutional.

A sick dog is prescribed an antidiuretic hormone analog. Desmopressin is a synthetic substitute for vasopressin that enhances renal water reabsorption and increases urine density.

The drug is used in the form of drops subconjunctivally, as well as in the form of subcutaneous injections.

Desmopressin is used under the strict supervision of a veterinarian, since an overdose leads to serious intoxication of the body.

Cleansing the blood by intravenous injections, removing sodium from the body, helps to alleviate the condition of a sick pet. In the case of a nephrogenic type of disease, diuretics have a good effect.

The complex therapy of endocrine disease includes drugs to maintain the function of the kidneys and the cardiovascular system.

Diabetes insipidus in dogs does not have pronounced symptoms, so treatment does not always bring tangible results. The prognosis for cancer of the brain is unfavorable. As a rule, with caution, the veterinary specialist makes a prognosis for an animal with a nephrogenic form of the disease. Substitution and symptomatic therapy allows you to maintain the physiological functions of the body, but does not lead to a complete cure for the hairy patient.

Prevention in dogs

As a preventive measure, veterinary specialists recommend that owners closely monitor the health of four-legged family members and seek professional help at the slightest sign of illness.

And here is more about congenital and acquired heart failure in dogs.

Diabetes insipidus in dogs is a rare endocrine disease. The complexity of the pathology lies in the fact that the owner notices pronounced symptoms when the pet has developed severe dehydration and cachexia.

Substitution therapy improves the condition of the pet while excluding the oncological cause of the disease. In the nephrogenic type of the disease, treatment is based on the use of diuretics, drugs that improve the function of the kidneys and heart.

Source: http://zootvet.ru/nesaharnyj-diabet-u-sobak/

Diabetes insipidus in dogs

  • Development mechanisms
  • Symptoms
  • Diagnostics
  • Therapeutic tactics
  • Forecast

Diabetes insipidus is a rather rare disease in which there is a violation of the water-electrolyte balance or balance in the body, due to which polyuria occurs - frequent urination, then thirst joins, and the blood thickens. Diabetes insipidus in dogs is a serious disease that requires compulsory treatment.

Development mechanisms

Diabetes insipidus has several pathogenetic variants of development at once, which determines the further tactics of treating a dog. The first type is of central origin, and with it there is a significant reduction in the production and secretion of antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin), which is produced in the hypothalamus of the brain in all mammals, including dogs.

The second pathogenetic variant occurs due to impaired renal function, and it is called nephrogenic.

With the nephrogenic variant, there is a violation of the tropism and susceptibility of receptors located in the renal tubules, which are activated under the influence of antidiuretic hormone.

As a result of impaired sensitivity to antidiuretic hormone, the reabsorption of water or its reuptake is blocked, which causes the symptom of polyuria and the rest of the clinical picture in the dog.

Diabetes insipidus is provoked by such anomalies and pathological conditions as pituitary dwarfism (its underdevelopment), serious diseases of an infectious nature, as well as injuries and neoplasms of the pituitary gland and the gland itself.

Due to the violation of the water-salt balance in dogs, there is a decrease in the specific gravity of urine and its relative density. Whether it is a primary or secondary form of diabetes insipidus in dogs, the signs of the disease remain as follows:

  • Polyuria - an increase in the volume of urine excreted and an increase in urination itself. This is due to a decrease in the specific gravity of urine and its relative density. Sometimes polyuria is so severe that it leads to urinary incontinence in dogs. Owners may notice that the dog has become restless and has begun urinating in the house.
  • Polydipsia - intense thirst also leads to constant anxiety of the pet, its activity is reduced. You can see that the dog's drinking bowl is empty by the middle of the day, which has not been observed before.
  • Spontaneous urination - occurs as a result of neuroendocrine disorders of the hypothalamic-pituitary system.

The symptoms of diabetes insipidus in pets, in particular in dogs, develop rather quickly, which allows you to notice changes in the pet's behavior in time and make an appointment with a veterinarian.

The correct diagnosis can only be made by a veterinarian

Therapeutic tactics

A pet with neuroendocrine disorders in the hypothalamic-pituitary system needs to provide unhindered access to fluid as soon as possible, since severe polyuria can lead to severe dehydration of the animal's body and exhaustion.

Try to walk your pet more often during treatment, as patience and overexertion of the urinary sphincter can lead to overstretching of the dog's bladder.

Animals with diabetes insipidus need a lot of fluids

Primary treatment

Unfortunately, pathogenetic therapy for this disease does not exist, however, hormone replacement therapy using synthetic analogs of the antidiuretic hormone Desmopressin is possible.

The drug is a dosage form in the form of eye drops, which are instilled into the conjunctival sac and, being absorbed, quickly enter the systemic circulation, providing its therapeutic effects. Also, the drug can be administered subcutaneously, creating a small depot of the drug in the area of ​​subcutaneous fat.

The procedure practically does not cause discomfort for the pet, which greatly simplifies the treatment. It is important to note that an overdose of Desmopressin can lead to subsequent water intoxication in the dog.

The treatment of the secondary form differs from the treatment described above, since the pathogenesis is of a completely different nature. In the nephrogenic form of diabetes insipidus, treatment is carried out using the drug Chlorothiazide (Giabinesis).

Forecast

Treatment of diabetes insipidus is not radical, but only allows you to maintain the physiological state of the pet.

The prognosis for this disease is relatively poor, however, treatment with hormone replacement therapy in dogs allows the disease to be maintained in a compensated state for a long time.

With a central lesion of the pituitary gland, only replacement therapy is carried out in order to restore and maintain the water-electrolyte balance.

Source: http://diabetiko.ru/raznoe/nesaharnyy-diabet-sobak

Diabetes insipidus in dogs: treatment, symptoms and signs

A chronic disease called clinical syndrome, which is expressed by the inability of the kidneys to concentrate urine.

Diabetes insipidus in dogs in detail

Diabetes insipidus is characterized by a decrease in the sensitivity of the tubules in the kidneys.

This syndrome is usually associated with a lack of antidiuretic hormone, the so-called central pathology.

Or the disease is caused by a decrease in the sensitivity of the tubules in the kidneys to this hormone - renal pathology. Antidiuretic hormone is produced by the pituitary gland, which acts as one of the parts of the brain.

It is a malfunction of the brain that causes hormone deficiency - a central ailment. Violation of the genitourinary system - renal disease.

The course is slow, the symptoms appear gradually and turn into a rather severe course.

Danger of illness

Death often occurs. The disease is typical for dogs and cats, other types of animals practically do not get sick.

The disease is seen in cats and dogs.

Provoking factors

For the occurrence of central diabetes insipidus, several reasons associated with a violation of the central nervous system are sufficient. The main factors of occurrence:

  • head injury;
  • brain concussion;
  • prolonged febrile conditions;
  • prolonged oxygen starvation;
  • encephalitis;
  • meningitis;
  • hereditary factor.

Heredity can be a provoking factor.

The renal type can occur as a result of poisoning, as a result of which severe intoxication develops. Inflammatory diseases of the kidneys, as well as diseases of a non-inflammatory nature: nephrosis, depression and degradation of organs.

Symptoms and diagnosis of diabetes

For the correct diagnosis, a full range of diagnostic measures should be carried out due to the fact that the clinical picture of the disease will be blurred and similar to other pathologies.

  1. For this it is necessary to carry out laboratory examination of blood and urine... A urine test is performed to determine the density of urea. A blood test is performed to detect excess sodium, and a test is carried out to determine the concentration of the hormone.
  2. A complete examination of the kidneys is carried out by means of ultrasound examination, radiography with a contrast agent. If there is a suspicion of a reduced pituitary gland, a hormone should be injected artificially, water intake should be limited, then a control analysis should be performed. And also MRI and computed tomography of the brain is performed.

A blood test is needed to diagnose diabetes.

Symptoms are expressed in reduced renal activity, which may be due to severe intoxication. But an increased body temperature is also manifested. The animal is lethargic, walks uncertainly due to pain in the joints. Disruption of the digestive system - diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.

Dehydration

  • Dehydration leads to drying out of the mucous membranes, the development of constipation.
  • The pet has a decreased appetite or no appetite at all.
  • Can eat small portions of moisturized food, but refuses ready-made dry food completely.
  • There is a rapid weight loss.
  • The severe stage implies a change in the composition of the blood, the presence of an excess of heavy elements in it, atrophy of the neural ligaments occurs, and convulsions begin.
  • The harbinger of death is the onset of a coma.
  • Renal diabetes develops in the same way as central diabetes, but twice as fast and with similar symptoms.

When dehydrated, the dog loses its appetite.

Therapy and treatment

To develop a full-fledged complex of treatment, it is necessary to correctly diagnose the type of disease and develop a scheme for the proposed therapy.

  1. Based on ECG results heart support is provided, purify the blood by removing toxins and excess sodium. Supportive therapy for the kidneys and urinary system is being carried out. The reaction of cell sensitivity to artificially administered ADH is determined, the dosage and administration regimen are calculated.
  2. For an animal provides constant access to clean filtered water that should be fresh all the time. Never give your dog regular tap water to avoid the ingestion of sodium and heavy macronutrients.
  3. An antidiuretic hormone or its analogue is artificially injected in the form of injections or drops... The injections should be injected under the skin. The analogue of the hormone is the drug desmopressin, and when using it, you should be especially careful, since an overdose can provoke water intoxication, which in turn will lead to a significant decrease in the electrolyte balance in the blood. This fact can cause swelling of brain cells and the occurrence of irreversible consequences. If a renal type is diagnosed, then it will be advisable to prescribe diuretics.

The dog must have constant access to clean water.

Forecasts

For this disease, the prognosis is often poor. Full recovery almost never occurs, so it is imperative to start therapy as early as possible.

The owner should prepare for lifelong caring for a sick animal, but with due attention, the pet can live a completely fulfilling life.

Ignoring central diabetes insipidus will inevitably lead to heart attack and death.

It is impossible to completely recover from the disease.

Prophylaxis

As a preventive measure, one can single out only one thing: attention to pets.

It is necessary to monitor changes in the behavior of animals, strictly follow medical recommendations, carry out a scheduled examination in a timely manner, and vaccinate the animal.

Among other things, strictly control the pet's diet, provide comfortable conditions for keeping, maintain optimal sanitary conditions for the habitat.

Timely examination of the dog is a preventive measure.