Cost of Diabetes Treatment in Dogs

Canine diabetes is a treatable disease. The cost of diabetes treatment in dogs will vary depending on the choices you make. It is generally fairly inexpensive. Costs to consider include:

Veterinary care. The initial diabetes testing process can cost a fair bit depending on how many tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis and find the proper insulin dosage for your pet. After the diagnosis has been made, there may be the occasional visit if your dog does not seem to be responding well to the insulin or has developed other health problems. Regular vet care should of course continue as usual.

Food. Your vet may suggest a special diet for your canine friend. A prescription food may be suggested in order to bump up the amount of fiber and complex carbs in the food (which will allow blood glucose in your pet to rise more slowly and steadily, rather than "spike"). A special calorie-reduced diet might also be recommended if your dog is overweight.

(For overweight dogs, some people will simply feed less of the same type of food. While this does result in fewer calories, the dog may not feel "satisfied" eating a smaller volume of food, especially if he's accustomed to eating a certain amount every day. Lower-calorie food lets you feed the same amount while also decreasing the number of calories fed.)

Insulin and syringes/needles. This will be your biggest expense. Dogs with diabetes will need insulin shots every day.

Needles should not be re-used. Re-using a needle can cause contamination of the insulin supply and may introduce bacteria into your dog's body. Needles also get dull quickly, and dull needles hurt!

Other supplies. Your veterinarian may suggest testing your dog's blood glucose levels either with the use of urine test strips or with a glucometer. A safe container to discard used needles is also needed. Finally, you'll need to keep Karo syrup or maple syrup on hand just in case your dog starts to show signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Follow the treatment plan provided by your vet and monitor your pet closely. Keep track of who gives the insulin shot and when, so that you do not "double dose" your dog. The cost of diabetes treatment in dogs is generally pretty inexpensive and by keeping good control over your pet's diabetes, he can continue to lead a happy life for many years to come.

The information on this website is based on our own research and personal experience, and is not a substitute for medical advice. Questions about your health and individual situation should be directed to your doctor.