Insulin for Dogs

Uses for insulin for dogs

Insulin is used to manage blood sugar levels in certain diabetic animals, including dogs. Insulin comes in the form of an injection that you administer to your pet. The injection is given with a very fine needle and most dogs tolerate it well with minimal discomfort.

The insulin dose for dogs may vary based on their weight, response to the drug, diet, and blood glucose monitoring. Your veterinarian will determine the proper dosage of insulin for your dog.

As your dog’s blood sugar level returns to a normal range, you should notice a decrease in certain symptoms, such as less frequent urination and a more normal appetite and thirst.

Insulin safety

The following are some insulin safety tips to consider when administering the drug to your dog:

• For most insulins, it is important to give with or immediately after meals.
• Do not shake most insulins, especially lente and protamine zinc insulin (PZI), which should be rolled gently.
• Store your pet’s insulin in the refrigerator.
• Administer your dosages at the same time each day to manage blood sugar levels.

Note: Regular monitoring with blood glucose testing, glucose curves, or continuous glucose monitoring is necessary to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Symptoms of not enough insulin in dogs

If your dog is not getting enough insulin, you may notice a return of certain symptoms, such as:

• increased appetite
• weight loss despite the increased appetite
• increased thirst
• frequent urination
• lethargy
• frequent infections

From time to time, your veterinarian may need to change your dog’s insulin dosage to achieve the desired effects.

Insulin side effects in dogs

Insulin may cause side effects, which can be mild or serious. The most common side effect of insulin reported in dogs is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can cause symptoms, such as

• lethargy
• weakness
• excessive sleepiness
• lack of interest in moving or being active
• tremors
• difficulty walking
• disorientation
• seizures
• coma

If you have questions about any of insulin’s side effects, talk with your veterinarian.

Pet medications

This article provides information about medications for pets. Do not use human medications for pets, or pet medications for humans, as dosages, strengths, and ingredients may be different and can lead to serious harm. Always use medications under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian or doctor.

Insulin cost for dogs

You may be able to buy your dog’s insulin and the necessary syringes through your veterinarian’s office. You may also be able to purchase them through your local pharmacy, however, you will likely need a prescription from your veterinarian to do so.

There are different types of insulin, and certain types of human insulin may be used in dogs. Types of insulin that are commonly used in dogs include porcine lente (Vetsulin and Caninsulin), neutral protamine hagedorn (NPH), PZI, and Glargine. Your veterinarian will determine the best insulin for your pet.

The cost per month for Insulin for dogs can vary based on several factors. Typically, dogs are not covered under your personal or family health insurance plan. However, if you have pet insurance, it may cover a part or all of your dog’s medication.

To find out if your pet insurance covers your dog’s insulin, talk with an insurance representative.

If you don’t have pet insurance, you may need to pay out of pocket for your dog’s medication. Coupons, such as those available at Optum Perks, may be able to help lower the cost of insulin (Note: Optum Perks is a sister site of Healthline.)

For the best price on your pet’s prescription, you may also want to compare pharmacies. The price of insulin may vary depending on which pharmacy you use, so it can help to compare prices across pharmacies to find the lowest cost.

Summary

Your veterinarian may prescribe insulin to manage blood sugar levels in dogs with diabetes. Your veterinarian will determine the right dosage for your dog. You may be able to save on the cost of the drug through pet insurance (if you have it), coupons, and pharmacy comparisons.