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Diabetic Retinopathy
Causes Symptoms Natural remedies Complementary care
Diabetic retinopathy is a weakening of the blood vessels in the retina due to chronic blood sugar imbalances caused by diabetes. This can lead to blood and other liquid leaking into the retina from the blood vessels, causing vision loss and possibly eventually blindness if not controlled.
Blindness is a frequent occurrence in diabetic dogs and less frequent in diabetic cats, who suffer more from peripheral neuropathy (weakening of the leg muscles). Generally, most diabetic dogs experience type-1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes, rather than the type-2 that's now becoming common in obese humans. 80-95% of diabetic cats experience type-2 diabetes. but are generally severely insulin-dependent by the time symptoms are diagnosed.
Causes of Diabetic Retinopathy in Dogs and Cats
Chronic high blood sugar causes diabetic retinopathy, resulting in damaged blood vessels throughout the body, including for many pets bleeding in the retina resulting in vision loss and, potentially, in blindness.
Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy in Pets
Early signs of diabetes include such symptoms as sudden weight loss or gain, accompanied by excessive drinking and urination. The pets' appetite may become ravenous or absent. In dogs, the next symptom may be vision problems including cataracts. Cats more commonly suffer from peripheral neuropathy. You will see a weakening of the hind legs and the cat's gait may become stilted or wobbly.
Owners should watch for noticeable thinning of the skin and apparent fragility.
Complementary Care
Fatty acids are important. Get a blend that is rich in the Omega 3 constituents EPA and DHA.
Add general supplements, including ones that include plenty of vitamin C and bioflavonoids.
CoQ10 supports heart functioning and may help animal patients with retinal damage.
Nutritional supplements that include important antioxidants and herbs that support healthy vision and strengthen blood vessels such as eyebright, grapeseed extract, taurine and bilberry.
