Canine Diabetes Insipidus
Canine diabetes insipidus is a rare disease that can occur in two forms. The central form occurs when your dog’s pituitary gland doesn’t produce enough of an anti-diuretic hormone called vasopressine. The nephrogenic form occurs when the dog’s kidneys don’t respond to the secreted vasopressine. Vasopressine is the hormone responsible for controlling water resorption by the kidneys, so this condition is sometimes referred to as water diabetes instead of the more common sugar diabetes.
Causes
Central canine diabetes insipidus is most commonly caused by a congenital defect. However, it can also be caused by diseases of the hypothalamus or pituitary. It can also occur as a result of trauma. The nephrogenic form of canine diabetes insipidus can be caused by a congenital defect too. Other causes of this form include medications, kidney disease, and trauma.
Symptoms
The two most common symptoms of canine diabetes insipidus are increased thirst and urination. You may also notice that your dog’s urine will be clearer than normal.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of canine diabetes insipidus is done by excluding other diseases that can cause similar symptoms. These diseases include renal failure, liver disease, Cushing’s disease, and canine diabetes mellitus. Also, the veterinarian will likely perform a sonogram to take a close look at the pituitary gland.
Treatment
Central canine diabetes insipidus is treated using a drug called desmopressin. This drug can be administered as nose or eye drops as well as injected under the skin. The nephrogenic form is treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and diuretics. The veterinarian may also have you place your dog on a salt-restricted diet.
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