Introduction
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common endo- crinopathy of dogs and cats that is due to an absolute or relative deficiency of insulin by pancreatic β-cells. Most dogs have a type I- like DM, generally caused by the development of autoimmunity against pancreatic islets.
DM can also be associated with pancreatitis, hyperadrenocorticism, and administration of corticosteroids; diestrus and pregnancy may be predisposing factors in bitches. Samoyed, Miniature Schnauzer, and Poodle are at increased risk for DM.The majority of cats (80%) present with type II-like DM, characterized by decreased production of insulin and insulin resistance. Depositions of pancreatic amyloid and glucose toxicity are among the mechanisms that contribute to destruction of β-cells. Obesity and inflammatory conditions promote insulin resistance by secreting pro-inflammatory cytokines. Pancreatitis and pancreatic tumors in cats can also damage β-cells and lead to DM. Burmese cats are predisposed to DM (Nelson and Reusch 2014).