Why all puppies are not alike: Hypoglycemia in toy breeds

Hypoglycemia is the medical term for low blood sugar and it tends to be most often seen in toy breed puppies. Although Transient Juvenile Hypoglycemia (termed, transient because eating will cause symptoms to be reversed) may develop in any breed, this condition is more common among small and toy breeds because of their  smaller livers, muscles and body size which make them  more apt to be prone to it.  In fact, even a short fasting period in a toy breed puppy can trigger a hypoglycemic episode. These episodes or attacks may appear as weakness, confusion, seizures and wobbly gaits. In severe cases, intravenous glucose administration may be required, although most of the time, simply eating food will reverse minor symptoms.

Why in the world would an owner allow fasting to take place ? Sometimes even a routine shopping trip or a trip to the vet which results in the absence of a regular meal, can cause blood sugar to drop to dangerously low levels. Other factors include infections, vaccinations, strenuous exercise, climate changes and inadequate nutrition. Veterinarians suggest frequent meals (4- 5 times a day) of high protein, high carbohydrate food. Puppies at risk for hypoglycemia need to be monitored for ketones because a reversal to a ketone negative status indicates normal health.

There are other causes of Hypoglycemia in puppies and some include liver problems, genetic metabolic defects, hormone defects and severe bacterial infections.  All puppies, regardless of their breed, need to be examined by your local veterinarian to avoid a tragic outcome.

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